Solomon Islands Students Condemn Murder

Solomon Islands Students Condemn Murder Of Diplomat

By MOFFAT GHALA MAMU March 20, 2002
Wansolwara Online (USP)

SUVA (Pasifik Nius): Solomon lslands students studying in Fiji-based institutions have condemned the brutal murder of Bridget Nichols, New Zealand Deputy High Commissioner to Solomon Islands, at her home last Sunday.

Ms Nichols, 50, died from a chest wound suffered in a stabbing incident when she apparently disturbed two buglars at her home in Honiara. She died shortly afterwards at Honiara hospital.

The brutal killing sent shock and disbelief among students.

A number of students expressed grave concern about the incident, saying it endangered mutual relations the Solomon Islands had with overseas partners.

A postgraduate marine science student from USP, Rudolf Dora, said: "This is a very serious problem because it poses a threat that all diplomatic nations may want to pull out for good once New Zealand does so."

Vice-president Joel Denty of the Solomon Islands Medical Students Association said thatstudents would be affected if all sponsorship funding by foreign countries was withdrawn.

The dental student added that the government should do something about the problem now.

Solomon Islands Techonology Students Association president Ryan Veo also expressed regret over the killing, describing it as very dangerous for the country.

He added: "This would be a turning point for foreign partners because now they'll lose confidence in the country and withdrawal of development assistance will result".

This is a second incident involving a New Zealander being stabbed to death. Last month a Fletchers company manager was knifed by his own employee after being sacked.

+++niuswire

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