Solomon Islands police have evacuated a number of people from the parts of the Weather Coast of Guadalcanal where rebel leader Harold Keke is operating.
Last week four civilians were killed when houses at Oqio village were torched by supporters of Keke.
There were also exchanges of gunfire between the rebels and a police team at Biti village.
The police spokesman, Charles Lemoa, says the people have been taken to Honiara for their safety.
