BY ALICE T CAMPBELL
The Maritime of the Royal Solomon Island Police Force (RSIPF) wishes to address and clarify a recent incident that circulated widely on social media involving that of an RSIPF fast craft donated by the People’s Republic of China (PRC).
RSIPF in a statement yesterday said the vessel was temporarily secured ashore at Leroy Wharf during Cyclone Maila as part of standard safety precautions to protect critical maritime assets from severe weather conditions.
And while the vessel was under this protective arrangement, a group of youths unlawfully boarded the craft and captured photographs, which were later disseminated online accompanied by inappropriate gestures.
RSIPF Maritime considered this behaviour as “regrettable” given that it involved unauthorised access to a government asset that plays a vital role in maritime policing, safety operations, and emergency response capability.
When the matter was identified, RSIPF Maritime immediately engaged relevant stakeholders through established administrative and operational procedures.
RSIPF said the management of SolFish Company was also engaged and have taken appropriate internal action in relation to the incident.
The statement said the youths involved came forward to formally apologise for their actions.
“They were received at the RSIPF Maritime Aola Base by Maritime Operations Officer Inspector William Kelomae and other maritime officers on Tuesday, 19 May 2026,” said RSIPF.
Inspector Kelomae acknowledged their apology and commended them for being accountable and mature in the sense of voluntarily addressing the matter.
RSIPF said he also took the opportunity to provide guidance; reinforcing the importance of respecting government property, understanding operational security, and recognising that even actions taken without malicious intent can have broader implications for public institutions.
RSIPF Maritime emphasised that its assets are essential to safeguard lives at sea, support law enforcement operations, and respond to emergencies across the Solomon Islands maritime domain.
Hence, any unauthorised interaction with such assets not only compromises operational readiness but also undermines public trust and safety protocols.
“The RSIPF Executive and China Police Liaison Team (CPLT) have been fully briefed and strongly support the professional, balanced, and community-focused approach taken by RSIPF Maritime in resolving the matter through engagement, education, and restorative dialogue.
“RSIPF Maritime remains committed to strengthening community awareness, promoting respect for state assets, and encouraging responsible behavior among young people, particularly in relation to critical national infrastructure and maritime safety resources,” RSIPF said.
Photo credit: RSIPF
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