AN attempt to disrupt the election of the prime minister on Tuesday failed.
This was in the form of an attack on the fast craft (boat) carrying a group of MP’s to Mbike Island resort on Ngella in the early hours of Tuesday morning.
According to the reports, several gunshots were fired and a petrol bomb was used to damage the boat and prevent the MPs from returning to Honiara for the Prime Minister’s election.
The reports also claimed that a group of armed men came ashore in the early hours of yesterday on a black OBM (outboard motor) and then allegedly fired several shots on the fast craft and in the process threw petrol bomb at it before escaping.
The MPs who have camped the night out on Mbike Island resort did, however manage to come back to Honiara in time for the Prime Minister’s Election.
Asked on the reports, Police Commissioner, Frank Prendergast confirmed that guns were used to damage the boat.
He also said that petrol bombs may have been used, however could not confirm it at this stage as investigations are still ongoing.
“At this stage we can only confirm that guns were used and that a joint task force comprising of the RSIPF and the PPF are making it their top priority to deal with the matter,” he said.
He said that they are in the process of collecting evidence and interviewing witnesses in relation to the incident.
“We have yet to establish the motive behind the attack or those responsible at this stage.
“However we are making it our top priority to bring those responsible to justice,” Mr Prendergast said.
Mr Prendergast, meanwhile said that police are happy with the cooperation and support rendered by the general public, which resulted in the successful prime minister’s election held yesterday.
By JEREMY INIFIRI
