Aitorea Vows Investigations Into Pacific Games Audit & ESP Findings

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Acting Commissioner of Police James Aitorea says the Royal Solomon Islands Police Force (RSIPF) is preparing to investigate findings contained in the Economic Stimulus Package (ESP) and 2023 Pacific Games audit reports.

Speaking at his first media conference today, Aitorea said he had yet to receive any formal referrals from the latest audit report, but assured the public that police would follow up on the findings once the relevant reports and referrals were received.

“Yes, I am in the process of preparing for the investigation,” Aitorea said.

The Acting Commissioner, who has been in the position for about a month, said he was in the process of putting together a team of professionals to conduct the investigations.

He said the team would comprise both local investigators and experts from outside the country, with neutrality and professionalism being key considerations.

Aitorea said the investigation team would include forensic financial experts and experienced local police investigators to examine the financial and administrative issues identified in the audits.

He confirmed that the investigations would cover both the Pacific Games and ESP audits.

The announcement follows the release of audit reports raising serious concerns over the management and expenditure of public funds.

The Pacific Games Special Audit Report identified significant weaknesses in financial management, procurement and governance, while the ESP audit also raised concerns over compliance with government financial rules and the use of public funds.

Aitorea said police would focus on the findings contained in the reports once the necessary referrals and documentation were made available.

He stressed the need for the investigation team to be independent and neutral to ensure the matters are properly examined.

The proposed investigations could potentially lead to further action if evidence of criminal wrongdoing is established.