Residents of Gizo and as far as Titiana settlers in the Western Province are outraged over allegations that a foreign businessman has been illegally extracting gravel from sites to resell for profit.
The site where the gravel is located is the Mile 3 site outside the Gizo Township boundary.
The issue has sparked widespread frustration amongst community members, who claimed the businessman has been taking gravel from public and private properties without permission. 

The stolen gravel (ground)  is reportedly being sold back to local buyers within Gizo, other islands, Titiana and West Gizo  as well, further inflaming local tensions but they have no power to raise this frustration issue.
Speaking to the Solomon Star, a resident of Titiana village who wished to remain anonymous, expressed anger at the blatant disregard for community resources.
 “It’s unacceptable for someone, especially a foreigner, to come here and exploit our land for their own benefit. This gravel belongs to the community, especially it is owned by the Commissioner of Lands (Col) , not to be stolen and sold,” the concerned resident said.
The alleged theft has not only caused financial concerns but has also led to environmental and infrastructural damage in affected areas.
Residents report that some roads and pathways and drainage have become unstable after gravel was removed, posing risks to public safety.
It also damaged some portions of the gardens owned by the people who resided in Titiana which they would harvest their garden after every six months.
A community elder from Titiana said these actions are disrespectful to our people and our land. 

“The removal of gravel is causing erosion in certain areas, and it’s impacting everyone who relies on these resources,” the elder said.
Local leaders are calling on the Western Provincial Government (WPG) and law enforcement authorities to take immediate action.
They are demanding a thorough investigation into the allegations and urging authorities to hold the foreign businessman accountable for his actions.
“We need to enforce the laws that protect our resources from exploitation. This behavior cannot be tolerated,” a community elder Wayne Tokanpiri said.
When contacted, a spokesperson for the Western Provincial Government acknowledged the community’s concerns and assured that an investigation has been launched.
They also reminded businesses operating in the region to adhere to regulations governing resource extraction and land use.
However reports also said that the WPG is also working closely with the foreign businessman and this is a great concern and really not appropriate at all.
“Somehow their move might seem reasonable but seeing the machine come every Sunday and collect a portion of the gravel and go back is not good.
“We already know, all the gravel he stole, will be stored at his yard in Gizo and he had machines to refine the gravel and re-sell it to the locals,’’ Mr. Tokanapiri added.
This incident has reignited broader discussions about foreign business practices in the Solomon Islands and the need for stronger protections for community resources.
“This is not the first time we’ve faced such issues, our land and resources are often taken advantage of by those who think they can get away with it. We need stricter rules and enforcement to stop this,’’ another resident from Paelonge said.
Community members are urging each other to remain vigilant and report any further unauthorised activities to the authorities.
They are also appealing for support from local leaders to ensure that the rights and resources of the people are safeguarded.
By Ulutah Gina

Solomon Star, Gizo