POLICE are continuing dialoguing with the community leaders of Mono, Shortland Islands, Western Province, in relation to the issues between them.
Acting police commissioner Juanita Matanga said the deputy police commissioner is still at Mono to continue dialogue with the community leaders there.
She said this is to sort out the issues between them.
Ms Matanga has also brushed aside rumours that police used arms during the recent stand-off between the police and the community members.
The clash between the police and community members came about after police arrested a suspect in the community following a logging row.
She said people need to understand the difference between less lethal weapon and lethal weapon.
“This is very crucial for the on-going development,” Mrs Matanga said.
“When I talked about arm, I am referring to firearms.
“I want to make it very clear here that police do not have firearms.
“But we have capabilities to respond in the terms of our Royal Solomon Islands Police Force, less lethal weapon response.
“I do not deny there was a stand-off between the police and the community at Mono.
“What I am trying to say is that when there is a situation, police use their capabilities to respond to situation for safety of police officers which happened at that time.”
She said this is the thing that needs to be clarified so that our people at Mono do not come out with misunderstanding.
“We know that there are lots of issues that affect the community there and we are trying to maintain peace within community.”
Mrs Matanga said they are trying hard to work with the community and if there is any misunderstanding, they should come forward so that “we can discuss these issues because it is their intention to work closely with community”.
“This police force belongs to Solomon Islanders and belongs to Solomon Islands.
“We are entrusted under the laws to enforce the laws.”
By ASSUMPTA BUCHANAN
