BY JOY OFASIA
Hon. Franklyn Derek Wasi, MP for East Makira Constituency, publicly acknowledged the Royal Solomon Islands Police Force (RSIPF) after the arrest of five suspects linked to the violent killing of 24-year-old Stephanus Wainamo from Star Harbour, Makira/Ulawa Province.
“Thank God! – another arrest is being done by RSIPF in relation to the killing. We have one to go – tagio tumas police for the job well-done,” Hon. Wasi wrote on social media. “Justice for Stephanus Wainamo.”
The tragic incident occurred at Jacob’s Ladder in the Milestone area of east Honiara last weekend. RSIPF confirmed that among the five suspects arrested on 17 May was one female, while two suspects remain at large.
Police reports allege the victim was attacked with stones, and one suspect used a screwdriver, resulting in Wainamo’s death. Assistant Commissioner Patricia Leta expressed condolences and assured the public that the Serious Crime Unit is working diligently to bring all those responsible to justice.
“We appeal to the remaining suspects to surrender and call on the public to assist us with any information,” Leta said in a police statement.
In a show of reconciliation, a ‘peace offering’ of SBD$10,000 and two shell money was made at Central Police Station, with additional compensation expected. The ceremony was attended by MPs from Makira and Malaita, relatives from both sides, and community leaders who called for peace and swift justice.
Wainamo, who dreamed of becoming a pilot, was mourned as a young life lost too soon in a senseless act of violence.
