15 Aug 2003

Solomon Islands Malaita gunmen surrender weapons

3:19 pm on 15 August 2003

Leaders of another Solomon Islands militia group have surrendered their guns to the multi-national intervention force.

The Malaita Eagle Force handed in 99 guns as part of the amnesty implemented by the Australian-led force.

But two key MEF commanders are bitter at Australia for waiting so long to come to the country's aid.

Malcolm Lake accused Australia of refusing to help earlier because only Malaitans were suffering.

And another commander, Simon Mani, said while he appreciated the international force, history has taught them not to trust the white man.