After three days of violent riots, calm seems to have returned to the Solomon Islands. The capital of the archipelago in the Pacific Ocean was restless because of dissatisfaction with Prime Minister Manasseh Sogavare. At the request of the archipelago, Australia and Papua New Guinea have agents and diplomats sent to restore order.
The demonstrators feel disadvantaged by the government. There is also anger about the rapprochement of the archipelago with China. Prime Minister Sogavara has severed ties with Taiwan in favor of China.
In recent days, nearly 60 buildings went up in flames, including many shops and a police station. The parliament building was also set on fire. Shops were looted, especially in the Chinese neighbourhood.
Three bodies were found yesterday in a burned-out building in the Chinese quarter.
Curfew and Arrests
With the support of Australian and Papua New Guinean security forces, the authorities have put an end to the riots. A curfew has been imposed in the capital Hoinara. More than 100 rioters and protesters have been arrested. The damage is estimated at $227 million, writes The Solomon Star.
The damage in the capital can be seen from the air:
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