The Solomon Islands Police Force (SIPF) has commenced an investigation into the fatal accident involving a RAMSI vehicle that occurred last Friday at Tasahe Drive.

Officers from Kukum Traffic Centre and the Police Forensics Unit attended the scene and commenced an investigation.

Initial reports indicate that a white Hilux utility was traveling down Tasahe Drive lost control and collided with pedestrians. Tragically one female died at the scene others were transported to the National Referral Hospital to receive medical treatment.

Police interviewed a RAMSI PPF officer from Samoa in relation to the accident at the Central Police Station and he is currently assisting Detectives with the investigation.

Acting Commissioner of Police, Peter Marshall, said "our investigation into this tragic accident is a priority and all available resources will be used to establish the circumstances surrounding the incident."

"Central CID Detectives, Police Forensics and officers from Kukum Traffic Centre are currently working to determine the cause of the accident.

"I am aware that this accident involved an off-duty RAMSI police officers and I have assurance from the Participating Police Force that they will assist with the investigation," he said.

Meanwhile the Regional Assistance Mission to Solomon Islands, RAMSI, Special Coordinator, Tim George, has expressed his deepest regret at the tragic death of a woman in the fatal accident.

Mr George says that he wanted to extend the mission's most heartfelt apology and condolences to the family of the deceased on behalf of all members of RAMSI, including RAMSI's Participating Police Force.

He says the fact that a vehicle driven by an off-duty RAMSI police officer was involved in a fatal accident is a matter of grave concern and the deepest regret to them.

The Commander met with the family of the deceased yesterday and has agreed for the PPF to provide transportation and other assistance for the burial which took place yesterday.

"RAMSI appreciates the family's willingness, at what is a very difficult time, to sit down and talk with us and work out how the PPF could best assist in the arrangements for the funeral."