18 Apr 2013

Solomons MP tells parliament people still don't have confidence in police

11:06 am on 18 April 2013

A Solomon Islands MP, Milner Tozaka, has told parliament that people's confidence in the police force is not yet strong enough.

Discussing the Police Bill 2013, the MP for North Vella Lavella said the police lost the people's confidence and trust during the recent ethnic tensions when police officers took sides.

On the question of re-arming some sections of the force, Mr Tozaka said he wants selected officers to be properly trained, not only on how to fire guns but also on how to behave towards civilians in unwanted incidents.

He added because Solomon Islanders still do not have full confidence in the police, re-arming officers must be progressive.