Mr. Ian Vaevaso is officially appointed as the new commissioner of the Royal Solomon Island Police Force (RSIPF) on Friday morning (24 April 2026) before the Governor General (GG) of the Solomon Islands at Government House.
Mr. Vaevaso accepts this responsibility with humility, with seriousness and with firm commitment to serve our nation faithfully.
He said, this appointment is not about one individual. It is about responsibility, it is about duty to Constitution, to our communities and to every citizen who looks to Police for protection and fairness.
Mr. Vaevaso emphasises his commitment to enhancing community safety and building trust between the police and the public.
He outlined several key initiatives aimed at dealing with emerging crimes and improving training and resources for officers to better serve the citizens of the Solomon Islands.
Vaevaso also highlighted the importance of collaboration with local communities and international partners to address pressing crime-related issues.
His vision for the RSIPF aims to foster a safer environment where every citizen feels secure and respected.
This approach not only seeks to enhance public safety but also aims to empower community members to take an active role in their own security.
By engaging citizens in dialogue and decision-making, Mr. Vaevaso believes that a stronger, more resilient society can be built, ultimately benefiting everyone involved.
The new police chief said this collaborative effort is expected to bridge gaps between police and the community, creating a shared responsibility for the safety of everyone, both citizens and visitors.
“Additionally, it encourages trust and transparency, essential elements for fostering long-lasting relationships between the RSIPF and the citizens,” said Mr. Vaevaso.
This approach not only enhances public safety but also cultivates a sense of ownership among community members.
Commissioner Vaevaso also acknowledges Mr. Mathias Lenialu for keeping the office of the Commissioner of the RSIPF acting. You have proven to the ranks and file of the RSIPF with a strong and determined leader as a role model.
He also extended his acknowledgement to the RSIPF Executive and to the ranks and files of the RSIPF who unwavering serve this nation with pride and honour.
Outgoing Supervising Commissioner Mr. Mathias Lenialu said, “I have always been very conscious of the great trust and responsibility that the Government and People of Solomon Islands reposed in me when I was sworn in as a supervising commissioner and also the great privilege, I enjoyed in being given the opportunity to lead the RSIPF.”
“I am extremely grateful for the tremendous support and encouragement that I have been given during my term in office by the government, the stakeholders, the men and women of the police force, and very importantly, the communities of the Solomon Islands. I thank you for that support, as it has made my task a lot easier and enjoyable,” said Mr. Lenialu.
“I have known and worked with Mr. Vaevaso for a long time, and I am very confident that he is the right person to lead the RSIPF through the next stage of its development,” said the acting commissioner.
He is a qualified and experienced police officer who has much experience in his leadership, which will ideally equip him for this role. He is also a strong leader of great integrity who will continue to develop the leadership of the RSIPF. Congratulations Vaevaso and all the very best in your new role.
– RSIPF
