Fires and Looting Reported as Protests Prompt Lockdown in Honiara

Fires and looting were reported in the Solomon Islands capital Honiara on November 25, as protests entered a second day amid calls for the prime minister to step down.

These videos posted to Facebook by Jây Dåms show clashes between protesters and police. The videos also show the flames from a large structure fire in Honiara and the looting of a store.

Prime Minister Manasseh Sogavare announced a 36-hour lockdown in Honiara from 7 pm November 24 until 7 am November 26 in response to the protests. The Royal Solomon Islands Police Force urged residents to stay home while the government order was in force.

Protests began on Wednesday when crowds gathered outside the nation’s parliament calling for Sogavare’s resignation. Buildings near the parliament were set on fire amid the demonstrations. Credit: Jây Dåms via Storyful