A tribunal has been appointed to investigate allegations against Police Commissioner Ian Vaevaso, who has been suspended pending its findings.
An Extraordinary Gazette issued on 17 June 2026 announced the establishment of a three-member tribunal under Section 129(5) of the Constitution to inquire into allegations of misconduct against Mr Vaevaso.
The tribunal was appointed by Governor-General Sir David Tiva Kapu following representations from Prime Minister Matthew Wale, who cited complaints alleging that Mr Vaevaso interfered with lawful police investigations and arrests while serving as Deputy Commissioner of Police. The Prime Minister also provided information concerning the alleged destruction of illicit drugs, including ketamine and methamphetamine.
According to the Gazette, the tribunal will examine whether Mr Vaevaso unlawfully interfered in the arrest of Jackson Vaikota in 2019 and whether he intervened in a 2024 police investigation into alleged illegal mining activities involving Chinese businessman John Szetu at Mount Vunusa in Central Guadalcanal, where Gold Ridge Mining Ltd held a prospecting licence.
The inquiry will also consider allegations that Mr Vaevaso unlawfully intervened in the destruction of illicit drugs and whether any of the incidents under investigation were disclosed during the recruitment and appointment process that led to his appointment as Commissioner of Police.
Former Governor-General Sir Frank Kabui has been appointed chairman of the tribunal, with James Apaniai and Felix Hollison serving as members.
The tribunal has been directed to report and recommend to the Governor-General within 30 days whether Mr Vaevaso should be removed from office on grounds of misbehaviour. The period may be extended after consultation with the Prime Minister if additional time is required to complete the inquiry.
The Attorney General is expected to appoint a lead prosecution counsel to formulate and serve formal charges on Mr Vaevaso, who will be entitled to engage legal representation during the proceedings.
In the meantime, Governor-General Sir David Tiva Kapu has suspended Mr Vaevaso under Section 129(6) of the Constitution to allow what the Gazette describes as a “free and fair investigation” until the tribunal submits its report and recommendations.
Mr Vaevaso was appointed Commissioner of Police on 24 April 2026 after serving as Deputy Commissioner for National Security and Operation Support.
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