12 Nov 2004

Australian policeman with the RAMSI mission in Solomon Islands facing court charges

6:05 pm on 12 November 2004

The Regional Assistance Mission in Solomon Islands today confirmed that a Australian Federal Police officer who served with the mission is facing court proceedings in Australia.

The Special Coordinator of RAMSI, James Batley said the officer who served with the mission is now facing court proceedings.

He emphasised that RAMSI personnel are expected to maintain the highest standards of personal and professional behaviour, and to obey the law while serving in Solomon Islands.

However Mr Batley said he was unable to comment further because the matter was before the courts.

A fortnight ago, the Weekend Australian newspaper reported a Australian Federal Police officer was being charged with child sex offences that allegedly occurred while he was working as a peace-keeper in the Solomons.