Probe Begins into Controversial 33 Bauxite Shipments

Investigations into the controversial 33 shipments of bauxite have commenced. Minister for Mines, Energy and Rural Electrification (MMERE), Hon. Derick Manuari, said the Attorney General’s Chambers, with support from the Mines Division, is leading the process.

On Monday, 1 June 2026, Attorney General Gabriel Suri wrote to the Director of Mines to initiate an investigation into the 33 bauxite shipments by Asia Pacific Investment Development Ltd and Bintan Mining SI Ltd from Rennell Island.

Minister Manuari said this marks a decisive move by the GREAT Coalition to restore integrity in the mineral sector.

He said Government actions are grounded in law and reform, and the GREAT Coalition is taking firm steps to overhaul a sector long affected by weak oversight and poor accountability.

“These reforms are about safeguarding national interests, strengthening transparency, and ensuring Solomon Islanders receive the full benefits from their natural resources,” he said.

Minister Manuari said many current challenges stem from years of inaction and lack of political will by previous governments to implement meaningful reforms.

“We are now doing the hard work that should have been done long ago. We are putting in place strong systems, tightening oversight, and building a modern, accountable framework for managing our mineral resources,” he added.

The Minister has also directed the Mines Directorate to review the performance and capability of responsible officials, and to ensure officials who fail to perform are disciplined appropriately.