Eight AFP officers injured in violent protest

The Australian Federal Police (AFP) can confirm eight officers, serving as part of the Participating Police Force (PPF) in the Solomon Islands, have been injured during violent protest action in the country.

The injured officers, who are predominantly from Canberra, are part of a 282-strong Australian contingent currently serving in the Solomon Islands as part of the Regional Assistance Mission to Solomon Islands (RAMSI).

One of the injured officers is expected to be repatriated to Australia for further medical attention.

Other officers have suffered injuries including a dislocated shoulder and cuts. Two officers have undergone surgery and three officers have subsequently been released from a medical facility.

The AFP is working closely with the Royal Solomon Islands Police and other Pacific Island nations which form the PPF in an effort to calm the situation in the Solomon Islands.

Every resource available to the PPF in the Solomon Islands is being utilised as part of the combined effort.

AFP Commissioner Mick Keelty said the situation was being closely monitored on the ground and at this stage further resources would be sent to the Solomon Islands if deemed necessary.

“The AFP’s thoughts are with the injured officers and their families. The AFP has a strong welfare network of family liaison officers who have been working to ensure the families are kept updated of their loved ones progress,” Commissioner Keelty said.

“The AFP has had a strong presence in the Solomon Islands since 2003 and has worked alongside the RSIP to help restore law, order and security to the country. Protest action will not jeopardise the Australian police commitment within the Solomon Islands.”