The Director of National Investigation, Mr. Peter Aoraunisaka, opened the Solomon Islands Police Force Sexual Crimes Workshop yesterday.
The course is the sixth of its kind to be conducted in the Solomon Islands and will run over two weeks. The course will incorporate law theory, practical exercises, field trips and guest presenters. The course is the third to be held this year.The workshop has been developed by the Solomon Islands Police Force with the assistance of the Participating Police Force and it is designed to provide investigators with specialist knowledge and skills to efficiently investigate sexual assault offences and prosecute offenders. It has been developed in consultation with government and non-government organisations to meet requirements of the Solomon Islands.
The Co-author of the UNICEF report on child sex abuse in the Solomon Islands will present a lecture alongside The Melanesian Sisters on issues ranging from Pedophilia, Sex Tourism in the Solomon Islands, Child Pornography, International Considerations and Border Control.
A UNICEF lawyer and an officer from Save the Children will present a lecture on Children's rights. The Family Support Centre will provide information on the services provided by their organisation. There is also a guest presenter from the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions who will lecture on current issues in relation to investigation and submission of files regarding sex crimes.
Presentations will also be given by SIPF Sexual Assault Unit in relation to victim awareness, victim welfare and cultural issues. The Forensic Services will provide report in relation to Crime Scenes, exhibit management and note taking. The Intelligence Unit, in relation to the importance of intelligence and the professional standards in relation to ethical conduct.
The workshop will have a strong focus on all aspects of Child Sex Abuse and its impact on the community.