Two RSIPF officers return from UN Peacekeeping in Sudan

Family members and representatives of the RSIPF Executive today (10 September) welcomed back two of the five RSIPF officers who have served under UN Peacekeeping Mission in Darfur, Sudan for the past year as they arrived at the Henderson International Airport in Honiara.

The five RSIPF officers were the first ever to be deployed by the local police to any UN Peacekeeping Mission around the world. The two officers who returned today are Charlton Metopa and Robert Satini.

Team Leader, Metopa says, “I feel very happy and proud as the team leader who led the RSIPF officers on this first deployment on any UN Peacekeeping Mission. It was not an easy task but we were able to achieve what we were sent to do. The task needed commitment and dedication on our part to carry out the duties and responsibilities.”

“But we have made it. I am proud of my team members though three of them are still to arrive back in the country. We have made history. We were the first RSIPF officers to have served under the UN Peacekeeping Mission flag,” says Mr Metopa.

Mr Metopa paid tribute to members of their families and the RSIPF for the support given to them while there were away in Sudan.

“I thank the almighty God for His guidance and protection because despite some challenges during the deployment we were able to get through because of His strength and might,” says Mr Metopa.  

When welcoming back the two officers, Commissioner of Police, Matthew Varley says, “RSIPF is very proud of the performance of the five officers in Sudan and we look forward to the same professionalism to be shown by the next group of eight officers when they are deployed.”

Eight more RSIPF officers are now ready for deployment to the same UN Peacekeeping Mission in Darfur, Sudan.

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