Police dismiss media report on ‘no parliamentarian arrest’

ROYAL Solomon Island Police Force has dismissed media rumours claiming that no arrest on Parliamentarians till after the current Parliament is dissolved next year.
Police Commissioner Mathew Varley, in his media conference yesterday, said he is not going to comment on individual cases of Janus investigations and corruption enquiries.
“I think to do so will prejudice the ongoing investigation but what I can say is we have number of investigation underway at the moment and when cases are ready and have our evidence in place, appropriate action will be taken,” Mr Varley said.
“The facts will speak for themselves and we are committed to investigating the cases thoroughly.”
According to a police media statement responding to media report published in the paper yesterday, “The Royal Solomon Islands Police Force notes recent media reports about alleged corruption matters under investigation by the RSIPF.”
RSIPF Commissioner Matthew Varley said, “The RSIPF will not comment on any individual cases under investigation. This is to protect the confidentiality of the investigation.”
“Corruption investigations are complex and must be investigated carefully. Once the evidence is ready, we refer cases to the Director of Public Prosecutions for review.
“This is standard practice in investigations. The role of the DPP is to advise if the evidence is likely to support a successful prosecution at Court.
“The decision to arrest and charge any individual is then made by the police, based on the evidence and on the advice of the DPP.” Commissioner Varley said.
“The role of the police is to uphold the law. The RSIPF will thoroughly and independently investigate allegations of corruption against public officials, including public servants or politicians.
“The decision to arrest any person for a criminal offence is a matter for the police,” Commissioner Varley said.