MoU sign between RSIPF and VPF

A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed between the Royal Solomon Islands Police Force (RSIPF) and the Vanuatu Police Force (VPF) in Honiara on 18 August 2026.

The MoU was signed between the Minister of Police, National Security and Correctional Services (MPNSC), Hon. John Junior Tuhaika, and the Minister of Internal Affairs of the Republic of Vanuatu, Hon. Andrew Solomon Napuat.

Minister of Police, National Security and Correctional Services, Hon. John Junior Tuhaika, in his remarks during the MoU signing ceremony, said the MoU provides a practical framework for the RSIPF and VPF to strengthen cooperation in maritime policing and surveillance and sharing of maritime resources.

Minister Tuhaika said the MoU also provides training and capacity development, criminal and forensics cooperation, personal exchange, intelligence and sharing of information. This cooperation is an important part of strengthening our national security capability and deepening our regional partnership.
“I encourage both forces to translate this commitment into proactive, sustained and decisive action, ensuring that this partnership delivers tangible results for the security and wellbeing of our people," said Minister Tuhaika.

Mr Tuhaika said our security environment is becoming increasingly complex, with challenges that increasingly transcend national borders. Particular concern is the growing threat of illicit drug trafficking in our region, which poses a serious risk to the safety, security and wellbeing of our communities.

He said this is a challenge that no country can address effectively in isolation.

It requires stronger regional partnerships, closer operational cooperation and timely sharing of intelligence and information to prevent, detect and disrupt these activities. Let us continue to stand together, work together and build a safer, stronger and more resilient Pacific.

Acting Commissioner of the RSIPF Mr James Aitorea, during the MoU signing, has acknowledged both the presence of the two ministers and the officials from the MPNSCS for coordinating the smooth facilitation of the MoU signing.