Solomon Islands Opposition Leader Dr Derek Sikua has condemned what he terms as the brutal murder of a young Solomon Islands Government diplomat and the injury of four others in Honiara last Saturday.

In a statement, Dr Sikua says it was shocking that the perpetrators launched their fearless attack on the innocent Solomon Islanders right in the centre of the capital.

He says such actions are tarnishing to the image of Solomon Islands especially when it is preparing to host the Oceania nations' cup competition in June and the 11th Festival of Pacific Arts in July.

The Opposition Leader calls on the government to do more in cleaning up our streets and neighbourhoods from these criminal activities and calls on the Royal Solomon Islands Police Force and the PPF to take a strong stand in ensuring that the safety of our citizens and that of our visiting friends is guaranteed.

Dr Sikua says that the government should strengthen security and engage community groups to establish community based law enforcement agencies to assist the police and other law enforcement agencies to ensure safety in our multi-ethnic and multi-cultural communities.

The Opposition Leader says that the rise of street crimes is destroying our communities and it is the collective responsibility of all Solomon Islands residence to combat such unlawful activities happening in our communities and on our streets.

Dr Sikua further supports calls by other political leaders to urge their youths to refrain from such unlawful activities.

He says youths should engage in more people-friendly activities that would have positive impacts to the welfare of our communities and the nation at large.

The Opposition Leader says Solomon Islands has lost a son, diplomat, leader, and a friend expressing hope that justice will prevail and the perpetrators be brought to face justice.