RAMSI exit to have little impact, says Solomons police chief

7:35 pm on 4 July 2017

The departure of the Regional Assistance Mission to Solomon Islands will have minimal impact on local communities, according to the country's police commissioner.

Solomon Islands' Police Commissioner, Matthew Varley (L), and RAMSI special coordinator Quinton Devlin (R).

Solomon Islands' Police Commissioner, Matthew Varley (L), and RAMSI special coordinator Quinton Devlin (R). Photo: Solomon Islands UNDP

During last week's celebrations to farewell RAMSI many Solomon Islanders expressed concern about the mission's departure with some saying they were fearful for their own safety, and uncertain about the future.

But the commissioner, Matthew Varley, said while much had been made of the mission finally ending, from a policing perspective RAMSI let go of the reins several years ago.

"The RSIPF has had responsibility for frontline policing services in Solomon Islands for several years now, that's been part of a four-year draw down strategy," he said.

Mr Varley said the local police force was ready to do the job.

"But I guess the point is that apart from some of the RAMSI infrastructure leaving, some of the RAMSI support services leaving, the public by and large should notice very little change."

The mission officially wrapped up last Friday ending a 14 year partnership working with successive Solomon Islands governments since 2003 to rebuild the country after several years of conflict which brought the country to the brink of collapse.

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