Patrol Boat 04 bringing 60-plus locals arrested yesterday, Vasara logging camp, Rendova, to Gizo Police Station. Photo by Tesika Riaz

MORE than 60 locals involved in the logging dispute at Vasara logging camp, Rendova, have been arrested yesterday morning by RSIPF.

According to Gizo Police Officers, a group of about 60 villagers earlier armed themselves with basic weapons and demanded the logging company (Oceanic trading) to leave within 7 days; this demand lapsed yesterday.

They said that the dispute resulted in disturbance and exchanges causing injuries and damages to logging equipment.

According to Solomon Islands Police Commissioner Mathew Varley yesterday, police were deployed to negotiate and ensure that peace was preserved during the initial stages of the dispute.

When negotiations were unsuccessful, police moved in yesterday to arrest the majority those allegedly involved in the disturbance.

Police transported the suspects to Gizo yesterday where they will face charges and appear in court.

It is understood by Island Sun Gizo that police are investigating the original incident.

Acting Provincial Police Commander (PPC) for Western Province Vincent Eria yesterday responded that they will deal with those arrested, so further information would be made known today.