BY NED GAGAHE
A three-member tribunal has been appointed to investigate four allegations of alleged misconduct against suspended Police Commissioner Ian Vaevaso, with the inquiry expected to report its findings within 30 days.
The appointment was made by Governor-General Sir David Tiva Kapu under Section 129(5) of the Constitution through an Extraordinary Gazette dated 17 June 2026.
Island Sun understands the 30-day period is due to expire on 16 July 2026, although the tribunal may seek an extension if more time is required to complete its inquiry.
Former Governor-General Sir Frank Utu Ofagioro Kabui has been appointed Chairman of the tribunal.
He is joined by lawyer James Apaniai and Principal Magistrate Felix Hollison as members.
The tribunal was appointed by Governor-General Sir David Tiva Kapu following representations from Prime Minister Matthew Wale, who cited complaints alleging that Mr Vaevaso interfered with lawful police investigations and arrests while serving as Deputy Commissioner of Police.
On the same day, Sir David suspended Mr Vaevaso from his duties as Commissioner of Police with immediate effect under Section 129(6) of the Constitution to allow what the Gazette described as a “free and fair investigation.”
The tribunal has been directed to determine whether Mr Vaevaso should be removed from office for alleged misbehaviour.
It has been tasked with investigating four key allegations:
-Whether Mr Vaevaso unlawfully interfered with the arrest of Jackson Vaikota in 2019 while serving as Deputy Commissioner of Police.
-Whether he unlawfully interfered in 2024 with police investigations into alleged illegal mining activities involving Chinese businessman John Szetu at Mount Vunusa in Central Guadalcanal, where Gold Ridge Mining Ltd held a prospecting licence.
-Whether he unlawfully intervened in and caused the destruction of illicit drugs, namely ketamine and methamphetamine.
-Whether he failed to disclose any of the above incidents during the recruitment and appointment process that resulted in his appointment as Commissioner of Police.
According to the Gazette, the Attorney General will appoint a Lead Prosecution Counsel to prepare and serve formal charges on Mr Vaevaso.
Mr Vaevaso will have the opportunity to engage legal counsel to represent him during the inquiry.
The tribunal has also been instructed to operate in accordance with Section 137(8) of the Constitution and will receive administrative support from the Office of the Prime Minister, including a tribunal secretary, secretarial services, office facilities and a prosecution office.
The Governor-General has the authority, after consulting the Prime Minister, to extend the tribunal’s reporting deadline should additional time be required to complete its work.
Photo: Supplied
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