BY NED GAGAHE
A girl under the age of 10 died on Christmas Eve when she was run over by a vehicle.
The incident is purported to involve the premier of Rennell and Bellona province.
Reports say the tragic accident occurred when the vehicle reversed and hit the child at a family home in Agape, west of Honiara on Christmas Eve.
The child was rushed to the hospital but was pronounced dead.
Island Sun was reliably informed that Premier of Rennell and Bellona Japhet Tuhanuku was the driver.
Police Media when contacted for comments yesterday, confirmed the incident, however could not confirm whether it involved Premier Tuhanuku.
Police Media explained that the family of the deceased had decided not to open a police case against the premier, hence police could not conduct an investigation and comment on who the suspect is.
“The family of the victim has considered that the incident happened between themselves as families.
“But the police will open an enquiry file. If the family need to proceed with the case, then we will activate the file.
“The enquiry file was opened because the family requested us the police to witness for medical reasons,” Police Media said.
Premier Tuhanuku declined when contacted yesterday for comments.
“At the moment we as a family are still morning over the death of our child so I cannot make a comment on that matter.
“The vehicle belongs to us. I would rather, if we would like to make a statement, we will make it as a family,” Tuhanuku said.
Meanwhile, Island Sun understands that the victim’s family has chosen to resolve the matter through cultural means, and not involve the law.
It is unclear whether a reconciliation has taken place following the incident.
