The Royal Solomon Islands Police Force (RSIPF) has detained an Australian national following a threatening incident involving an alleged firearm at a local shop last night (4 September 2026) near the SDA-Vura main road in east Honiara.

Police received a report that the suspect had been threatening a business owner while showing what seemed to be a weapon.

The suspect reportedly entered a shop and displayed the weapon, causing fear and concern among people at the scene.

Police responded quickly to the report, but when officers arrived, the suspect had already left the location.

Officers remained in the area until the suspect returned to the same location, at which point they intercepted the vehicle and arrested him.

The suspect was instructed to exit his vehicle and move to a clear area so the alleged weapon could be safely surrendered.

He refused to comply and behaved aggressively.

Given the circumstances and the potential threat posed to members of the public and police officers, officers took necessary action and used less-lethal force to gain control of the suspect.

Following the arrest, police searched the suspect’s vehicle but found no firearm or other weapon.

There was no exchange of fire between police and the suspect during the interception.

Police used beanbags fired from a Remington 870 (shotgun) a less-lethal capability—to gain control of the suspect after he failed to comply with orders.

How the firearm entered the country, or who sold it to him, remains subject to investigation.

Police also allegedly discovered equipment related to the use of methamphetamine and marijuana.

Police are treating the incident as a serious matter.

Investigators will continue examining the circumstances surrounding the incident, including what led to the threatening behaviour and whether other matters are connected to it.

RSIPF is committed to ensuring the matter is thoroughly investigated and dealt with in accordance with the law.

Commissioner of Police James Aitorea has issued a strong warning that anyone involved in criminal activity will be dealt with according to the nature and seriousness of the offence.

Threatening members of the public while displaying what appears to be a weapon is a grave concern.

Police will not tolerate behaviour that creates fear and puts members of the community at risk, and will respond decisively to ensure such matters are properly investigated and dealt with under the law of the Solomon Islands.

Police are urging members of the public to remain vigilant and report threatening behaviour or incidents involving firearms.