19 Dec 2002

Solomons cabinet may decide this afternoon to pay special constables more

5:48 pm on 19 December 2002

The Solomon Islands cabinet is due to meet this afternoon and may discuss paying more money to the special constables who last week fired at the prime minister's residence to press compensation demands.

Those involved in the attack on Sir Allan Kemakeza's home wanted to be given another 100-thousand US dollars after being paid tens of thousands of dollars of money for what they claim were allowances owed to them.

Other police then tightened security around the residence and arrested one of the constables for shooting at the premises.

A spokesman in the prime minister's office, Edward Kingmele, says despite the threats, no more money was paid to the force but more may be made available.

"I saw the Minister of Police and Justice this morning,...he has some papers to be discussed with Cabinet probably that is part of the demand for some payment."

Mr Kingmele also questions if the Australian and New Zealand police advisors have any impact on the police force when special constables go about shooting at the prime minister's residence.