A Chinese construction worker was attacked during an attempted robbery at a campsite in northern Malaita Province, Solomon Islands. The incident occurred early on December 9, 2025, prompting strong condemnation from government officials and project stakeholders.
Incident Details
The victim, employed by China Civil Engineering Construction Corporation (CCECC) at the Kolofe campsite, headed to the restroom near sleeping quarters when two suspects ambushed him. He fought back as one slashed him with a knife during the robbery attempt. Camp security heard the noise, chased the attackers, but they escaped by scaling the perimeter fence.
The injured worker received urgent care at Malu’u Health Centre. Royal Solomon Islands Police Force (RSIPF) from Malu’u and Auki arrested one suspect on December 10 afternoon; the second remains at large. Community leaders in northern Malaita urged residents to aid police in capturing the fugitive.
Official Response
Solomon Islands Ministry of Infrastructure Development (MID) and Solomon Islands Road and Aviation Project (SIRAP 2) team issued a joint statement denouncing the “brutal attack.” They highlighted how such violence damages the nation’s image and disrupts road infrastructure projects reliant on international contractors like CCECC. Officials called for non-violent community support at project sites across Malaita and other provinces.
Broader Context
This attack echoes a July 2025 incident where a China Railway Construction Engineering Group (CRCEG) worker on Honiara airport projects died from thief-related injuries. Both cases underscore risks to foreign construction workers in Solomon Islands’ infrastructure zones. Authorities stressed that criminal acts undermine social and economic progress.
Northern Malaita construction worker attack highlights ongoing security challenges for CCECC projects. Police continue manhunt for second suspect amid calls for community vigilance. Solomon Islands’ infrastructure development faces setbacks from rising violence at remote sites.
