Dear Editor – I am writing to express significant concern and seek urgent public clarification regarding the deployment and flight of a military Hercules aircraft over Loloko village in South Choiseul on the 15th of August, 2025 at about 10 to 11 am. This unusual incident has generated considerable anxiety and uncertainty within the community and demands transparent explanation from the responsible authorities.
The specific actions of the aircraft – flying at a very low altitude, seemingly just above the coconut trees, and circling the village twice before departing – were highly disruptive and alarming.
Such manoeuvres, particularly involving a large military aircraft like the Hercules, are not commonplace occurrences in our peaceful village setting.
This has understandably caused significant fear and distress, especially among our children and elderly residents, who are left wondering about the purpose and intent of this display.
This incident raises several critical questions that require immediate and public answers;
1. Authority: On whose specific authority was this deployment and low-level flight over Loloko village authorized? Which government ministry or agency sanctioned this activity?
2. Purpose: What was the precise operational purpose or objective of deploying a
Hercules aircraft to Loloko village on this date? Why was such a significant military
asset used in this manner over a civilian area? Given the specialized nature of Hercules aircraft, typically reserved for specific logistical or strategic missions, what justified its use in this context?
3. Cost: At whose expense is this deployment being charged? What are the projected costs associated with operating the Hercules for this specific mission, including fuel,
maintenance, and personnel? As taxpayers, the public has a right to know how public
funds are being utilized, especially for military activities that impact civilian communities.
4. Public Safety & Notification: Why was there no prior notification or explanation
provided to the village authorities or the community regarding this activity? What
measures are being taken to address the fear and uncertainty caused by this unexpected low-level flight?
The lack of information surrounding this event is deeply unsettling. It is imperative that the Solomon Islands Police Commissioner provide a clear, comprehensive, and public statement addressing these points without delay.
Transparency is essential to reassure the affected community of Loloko village and the wider public that such deployments are conducted lawfully, appropriately, and with proper regard for civilian well-being and taxpayer resources.
I as a concerned residents of Loloko and citizens of Solomon Islands, deserve to understand the nature of military activities occurring over our communities.
The police commissioner must issue a public statement to provide clarification on the low-flying Hercules flights that occurred on that day. It is important for us to be informed about this flight.
If the police commissioner is not aware of the situation, a response is still necessary to address any potential infringement on our sovereignty due to unauthorized flights in our airspace
I urge you to publish this letter to amplify these concerns and encourage the relevant authorities to respond publicly. I also formally request that the Police Commissioner provide a detailed explanation through your publication and other appropriate public channels.
Thank you for your attention to this serious matter. We look forward to your publication facilitating the necessary transparency.
Sincerely,
Henky Martin Leketo
Choiseul
