A FAMILY of Sinali Village in East Fataleka, Malaita Province was left homeless after their home was torched down in a retaliation attack linked to allegations of sorcery.
The arson incident occurred last week on Wednesday resulting in two semi-permanent structures being burnt down.
Reports said, a dwelling house and kitchen were deliberately set on fire during the arson attack which was reportedly carried out by a group of men in retaliation following a dispute involving allegations of sorcery.
The victims, now left homeless, included a man and his family whose swelling house and kitchen were both destroyed in the blaze.
It was reported that the incident stemmed from a claim made by a woman, who alleged following a dream that the victim had used sorcery to kill a member of the group (attackers).
In response, the accused (victim) demanded compensation from the woman.
The demand is believed to have triggered the retaliatory attack by the group.
Five days after the incident police in Auki have yet to make any arrests in connection with the incident.
Malaita Provincial Police Operations Manager, Superintendent Michael Ramosaea on Tuesday, confirmed that police are aware of the incident and an investigation is currently underway.
“Two houses were burnt down, and we are currently investigating the matter. We expect to invite both parties involved for questioning,” he said.
Superintendent Ramosaea noted that the dispute is related to a sorcery accusation, which escalated into the arson incident.
Although police have received names of possible suspects, no arrests have been made so far.
“We urge both parties to refrain from taking the law into their own hands and allow police to carry out a thorough investigation so that the matter can be resolved peacefully,” Ramosaea said.
Reports further indicated that the situation remains tense causing significant trauma and distress to women and children in the area.
It further raised concerns about the ongoing negative impact of unresolved disputes within the community.
By SOLOMON LOFANA
Solomon Star, Auki
Photo caption: The burning of the two structures and remains of them at Sinali village in East Fataleka
