BARELY a month ago, Police Commissioner Mostyn Mangau, was the darling of the government. He earned the Order of the British Empire (OBE) in this year’s King’s Birthday award for “his distinguished leadership, dedication, and long-standing service to policing and public safety in the Solomon Islands”.
His Deputy, Ian Vaevaso also received the Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE) in recognition of “his tireless efforts to enhance operational effectiveness, develop leadership within the force, and support strategic policing initiatives.
Deputy Commissioner Vaevaso is responsible for National Security and Operation Support (NSOS)”.
Now, Commissioner Mangau’s $142,055.53-a-year job is up for grab, according to a job advertisement which appeared in yesterday’s Solomon Star newspaper. The job will be vacant from 30 July.
Applications close at 4pm on 11th August, the advertisement said.
Commissioner Mangau held the job as Acting Commissioner from 29 November 2019 until 22 July 2020. He was confirmed in the job on 23 July 2020 and has held the position since.
“I am deeply honored by this recognition. This award reflects the dedication and hard work of all RSIPF officers. It is a privilege to serve alongside such committed professionals,” he said in an interview following the ceremony.
“It’s all about team building with my RSIPF executive and the whole organization. I am just taking the leading role to ensure we follow the right direction in terms of providing services to the good people of the Solomon Islands,” he said.
The job carries an SS5 taxable salary, which according to the government, typically carries a fortnightly basic salary of between $4,530.58 and $5,463.67. This translates to an annual salary of between $117,795.03 and $142,055.53, according to the Solomon Islands Government Portal. This corresponds to an average monthly salary of approximately $9,986.72.
Deputy Commissioner (DC), National Security and Operation Support (NSOS) Mr. Ian Vaevaso was awarded the Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE), in recognition of his tireless efforts to enhance operational effectiveness, develop leadership within the force, and support strategic policing initiatives.
The government is seeking applicants from within and outside for the job.
“This is an equal opportunity for both qualified women and men to apply. It is seeking an Undergraduate Degree in Policing, Strategic Studies, Politics, related qualification in Law Enforcement or, any other relevant qualifications and or, with … ten (10) years working experience as an executive police officer or, as an executive officer in a public office, the advertisement said.
Further information on the job can be obtained from the Office of the Prime Minister and Cabinet or the Ministry of Police and National Security and Correctional Services.
By Alfred Sasako
Photo caption: Commissioner Mangau receiving his Award on 13 June 2025 at the National Stadium in Honiara
