22 Dec 2004

Australian police officer shot dead in Solomon Islands

11:43 am on 22 December 2004

An Australian police officer in Solomon Islands has been shot dead.

The male officer serving with the Regional Assistance Mission to Solomon Islands was killed on the outskirts of Honiara in the early hours of today.

The killing is the first of a foreign police officer since the Australian-led intervention began in July last year.

A 20-year old Solomon Islander has been arrested in connection with the shooting.

The prime minister, Sir Allan Kemakeza, is expected to issue a statement shortly.

Last week, a Solomon Islander was charged with shooting at a RAMSI vehicle.

The attack with a high-powered weapon in October left the driver injured.