Western Province Premier Billy Veo has described the opening of the new Noro Police Station as a historic milestone for the township and the province.
He described the new set up as a major step in strengthening law and order to support economic growth and community safety.
Speaking during the official handover ceremony on Monday in Noro, Premier Veo said the new facility represents a vital investment for Noro, which has become the country’s second most important township after Honiara.
“Today’s event marks another historical milestone in the development of Noro,” Mr. Veo said.
“As the host of the country’s only tuna processing facility, the second international seaport, and with Munda as our second international airport, this investment is crucial to enhancing law and order in Noro and its surrounding communities,’’ he said.
The ceremony was attended by Prime Minister Hon. Jeremiah Manele, Minister of Police and National Security Hon. Jimson Tanangada, Acting Australian High Commissioner Andrew Schloffel, Member of Parliament (MP) for West New Georgia and Vonavona Hon. George Tema, Police Commissioner Mostyn Mangau, the President and Clerk of the Noro Town Council, key stakeholder representatives from SolTuna, NFD, Telekom, Solomon Power, and members of the public.
Mr. Veo highlighted the importance of maintaining law and order in Noro, describing it as a “melting pot” of people from across the Solomon Islands seeking employment and opportunities.
“When you have a place where diverse cultures, views, and identities meet, there are bound to be differences and conflicts,” he said.
“That is why constant police visibility and a strong law enforcement presence are essential.”
He said the rise of transnational crimes such as drug smuggling, money laundering, human trafficking, and the illegal import and export of arms and prohibited goods underscores the need for improved policing capacity.
“It is in this regard that I view the construction and completion of this new police facility as a boost to the capabilities of the Noro Police,” Mr. Veo said.
“They must ensure an environment where economic development can thrive and people can live together in peace and unity.” he added.
The Premier acknowledged the Australian Government for funding the project as part of its broader partnership to strengthen the Royal Solomon Islands Police Force (RSIPF) infrastructure across the country.
“While I am not certain about the total cost, projects of this magnitude would be around SBD$10 million—and it is not cheap,” he said.
“These facilities and resources do not just appear from thin air. They are funded by the hard-earned money of the Australian people.” he adds.
He urged police and the community to make good use of the new infrastructure.
“The least we can do, by way of appreciation, is to fully utilize these facilities and take care of them so they continue to serve us well into the future,” he said.
Premier Veo reminded Noro Police that with the new facility and recent vehicle handovers during the Pacific Islands Forum retreat, there are now greater expectations for improved service delivery.
“With all these resources, we expect Noro Police to step up their roles and responsibilities in addressing law and order issues in Noro and other surrounding communities,” he said.
He called for a stronger crackdown on anti-social behaviour, illegal black markets, gambling, domestic and gender-based violence, and other social ills affecting residents.
‘’On behalf of the Government and people of Western Province, the Premier thanked the Australian Government for its continued partnership and support.
“Your investments in projects and initiatives that touch the very lives of our citizens are deeply appreciated.
“We look forward to our continued partnership as we address issues that affect our people,” Premier Veo said.
He concluded his remarks by quoting Pakistan’s founding father Muhammad Ali Jinnah, saying, “The first duty of the government is to maintain law and order.”
Veo said the new police station in Noro stands as a testament to that duty — ensuring peace, security, and good governance across Western Province.
By ULUTAH GINA
Solomon Star, Gizo
