PRC Provides Riot Equipment to RSIPF

The Royal Solomon Island Police Force (RSIPF) officially received riot equipment from the Peoples’ Republic of China (PRC) during a small handing over ceremony at the Henderson International Airport last night (29 December 2021).

A statement from the Police Media Unit confirms present during the handing over are the Permanent Secretary of Police National Security and Correctional Services of Solomon Island, Commissioner of Police and Senior Executives.

Group photo after the handing over ceremony

It says PRC Ambassador to Solomon Islands, His Excellency  Li Ming handed over the equipment to the Supervising Minister, Dickson Mua and Senior RSIPF Executive members.

The equipment includes shields, helmets, Batons and other non-lethal gear that will further enhance Police ability in confronting future threats.

RSIPF Officers loading the riot equipment

Commissioner of Police Mostyn Mangau says the riot equipment will strengthen RSIPF’s capability and capacity to respond to future unrest. 

Mr Mangau says Solomon Islands is a sovereign country and support will not interfere with police operations and administrations as police have its own operating procedures to operate on. 

“While I appreciate the PRC for the support rendered, I must thank the Australian Government for responding to Solomon Islands request for assistance, welcome Papua New Guinea’s bilateral support and appreciate New Zealand and Fiji’s contribution to support RSIPF to restore law and order during social unrest last month,” the Commissioner says.

Health officers disinfecting the riot gears before the handing over program

Meanwhile, Supervising Minister, Dickson Mua says, RSIPF is a force that has limited capacity and capability for required operations, but they have continuously tried their best to deliver on their task as best as they could.

He adds, what PRC has provided will go a long way in reinforcing RSIPF capability, moral and determination in carrying out duties.”

“I do understand that this batch of consignment is part of a larger batch which will be delivered in the coming months. 

It is only fitting to say that this progress support is a sign of how our friendship will grow overtime as I believe our friendship and partnership will continue to grow stronger and respectfully over the years to come,” Mr Mua says.

 

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