Police awaits referral from OAG before investigating ESP audit report

The Royal Solomon Island Police Force (RSIPF) is awaiting referral from the Office of Auditor General (OAG) before commencing its investigation into the Economic Stimulus Package (ESP) audit report.

Police Commissioner Mostyn Mangau in a statement explained that the RSIPF and the OAG signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on 19 May 2023 which sets out manners of referrals, follow ups and sharing of information and resources.

The MoU provides a framework for both parties to work together in addressing areas that require further investigation. 

It formalises a process for the OAG to refer any matters found in audits and other work which may indicate corruption, crime or misconduct to the RSIPF.

This requires the OAG to pass on any information regarding matters that may assist the RSIPF in any investigation of interest to them. 

Commissioner Mangau said this process includes measures to ensure confidentiality and a process where a clear trail of the information being passed to the police is maintained.

“While I appreciate the call from Leader of Opposition, Mathew Wale and our people for immediate investigation into the ESP audit report, such referrals sometimes take time before reaching my office but we wait for the report to reach us then investigation commences,” the Police Commissioner said.

ENDS

Police media