RSIPF Maritime Takes Firm Action Following Unauthorized Boarding of Fast Craft at Leroy Wharf

Original post on the boat

The Maritime of the Royal Solomon Island Police Force (RSIPF) wishes to address and clarify a recent incident that circulated widely on social media involving an RSIPF fast craft donated by the People’s Republic of China.

The vessel had been temporarily secured ashore at Leroy Wharf during Cyclone Maila as part of standard safety precautions to protect critical maritime assets from severe weather conditions.

While the vessel was under this protective arrangement, a group of youths unlawfully boarded the craft and captured photographs, which were later disseminated online accompanied by inappropriate gestures.

RSIPF Maritime considers this behavior regrettable, as it involved unauthorized access to a government asset that plays a vital role in maritime policing, safety operations, and emergency response capability.

Upon identification of the matter, RSIPF Maritime immediately engaged the relevant stakeholders through established administrative and operational procedures. The management of SolFish Company has also been engaged and has taken appropriate internal action in relation to the incident.

In a positive and constructive development, the youths involved subsequently came forward of their own accord to formally apologize for their actions. They were received at the RSIPF Maritime Aola Base by Maritime Operations Officer Inspector William Kelomae and other maritime officers on Tuesday, 19 May 2026.

Inspector Kelomae acknowledged their apology and commended them for demonstrating accountability and maturity in voluntarily addressing the matter.

He further used the opportunity to provide guidance, reinforcing the importance of respecting government property, understanding operational security, and recognizing that even actions taken without malicious intent can have broader implications for public institutions.

RSIPF Maritime emphasizes that its assets are essential to safeguarding lives at sea, supporting law enforcement operations, and responding to emergencies across the Solomon Islands maritime domain. Any unauthorized interaction with such assets not only compromises operational readiness but also undermines public trust and safety protocols.

The RSIPF Executive and CPLT team have been fully briefed and strongly support the professional, balanced, and community-focused approach taken by RSIPF Maritime in resolving the matter through engagement, education, and restorative dialogue.

RSIPF Maritime remains committed to strengthening community awareness, promoting respect for state assets, and encouraging responsible behavior among young people, particularly in relation to critical national infrastructure and maritime safety resources.

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