THE Royal Solomon Islands Police Force (RSIPF) is dealing with a public order situation at the Tinge Ridge area in West Honiara.

Early this morning a disturbance occurred in the area between employees of the Hatanga Group and local people residing in the area.

Violence broke out resulting in one house being burnt.

Police responded to reports of clashes involving groups of men armed with homemade weapons and throwing rocks.

Rocks were also thrown at an RSIPF fire truck attending to the burning house.

RSIPF officers attended the scene to restore order and have the situation under control.

There are no reports of injuries at his stage.

Police have engaged both parties in dialogue in an attempt to resolve the situation and ensure no further outbreaks of public disorder.

Police are mounting an operation to provide increased security and patrols in the area overnight and tomorrow.

Police ask the public to remain calm and settle any disputes in a peaceful manner.

Any person found carrying any weapons, inciting any violence, or taking the law into their own hands will not be tolerated by the police.

–POLICE MEDIA