Solomon Islands Joins Interpol

Solomon Islands Joins Interpol

Solomon Islands has officially become the 192nd member country of the international police organisation INTERPOL.

Solomon Islands became a member country on Tuesday 27th September at the 86th INTERPOL General Assembly, being held in Beijing last week.

Solomon Islands enjoyed overwhelming support, with 98% of votes from INTERPOL member countries in favour of Solomon Islands' candidacy.

Solomon Islands was represented at the General Assembly by Commissioner of Police Matthew Varley, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Police, National Security & Correctional Services Ms. Karen Galokale, and Assistant Commissioner of Police (Crime) Ian Vaevaso.

Prime Minister Sogavare said it was a significant step for Solomon Islands to join the international policing organisation.

"In an increasingly complex world, crime no longer respects borders or the laws of individual countries. In the interests of national and international security, countries and police forces around the world must share information on global security risks and cooperate in the fight against transnational crime", he said.

"We are not immune from these risks in Solomon Islands. But now as members of INTERPOL, we will have direct access to international criminal intelligence which will help secure our borders and protect our country. In turn, Solomon Islands stand ready to do its part to assist other countries to fight international crime" he said.

Addressing the General Assembly on Solomon Islands' candidacy, Commissioner Varley said that it was right time for Solomon Islands and the RSIPF to formally join the international police community.

"The rebuilding of our police force is a regional and international success story and is testament to what can be achieved when countries cooperate together in the common interests of security and justice. It is with this spirit of cooperation that Solomon Islands now seek to step forward to join the international policing community of INTERPOL."

"We are a small country. But we are strong because of our united belief in the rule of law and we know first-hand the importance of helping a friend. And so, we are ready to do our part as a member of INTERPOL. Specifically, Solomon Islands is ready to help expand the reach of Interpol in the Pacific region and we are ready to help close the net on those who seek to criminally threaten security - in our part of the world and in yours" he said.

Following the vote, the Solomon Islands delegation was officially congratulated and presented with the INTERPOL flag by the President of INTERPOL and the Secretary-General.

Solomon Islands' membership takes immediate effect. Through INTERPOL, the RSIPF will have links to a network of police forces around the world and will have direct access to the INTERPOL I-24/7 database which shares information on criminals around the globe.

The RSIPF will establish an INTERPOL National Central Bureau in Honiara, under the leadership of Assistant Commissioner Ian Vaevaso, who becomes the official head of the bureau.

Solomon Islands membership of INTERPOL is in line with the DCCG Government's policy priorities for policing and national security.

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