Behind the headlines stands Gold Ridge Mining Limited, a Chinese-backed firm emblematic of Beijing's Pacific approach: build big, move fast, and stay visible. Photo: ABC News / Bang Xiao
The premier of Guadalcanal Province in Solomon Islands has appealed for calm after the burning of machinery belonging to Gold Ridge Mining Ltd on Tuesday night.
But there are mixed reports on the matter.
Police said the machines were torched by unknown people who are not happy with Gold Ridge Mining for not addressing their long-standing issues.
But it has also been reported that local landowners are responsible.
A tribal chief spoken to by In-Depth Solomons said landowners were unhappy with how they were treated by police officers stationed at the mine site.
"Over the past weeks, police have been checking and in some cases, seizing gold from landowners at the mine site," the chief said.
"These are gold the landowners dug from the mining area. So these are personal property, not the company's."
A stakeholder meeting, attended by politicians from Guadalcanal, was held on Wednesday.
Attendees said the company has agreed to address the landowners' grievances, including why there is heavy police presence even after illegal miners have left.
The company said operations will continue despite the attack.
Gold Ridge in Solomon Islands Photo: AFP
Meanwhile the premier of Guadalcanal Province, where the mine is located, has appealed for calm.
In a statement on Wednesday Willie Atu expressed deep concern about the incident.
"As the Guadalcanal Premier, I on behalf of the Executive Government, expresses deep concerns over the burning of machines and properties at Gold Ridge Mining Limited," Atu said.
"I kindly appeal to all who engage in these unlawful acts to remain calm and refrain from any further destruction. Such unlawful actions will risk further divisions and undermines the peaceful coexistence."
Atu said the provincial government is committed to collectively engage with the mining company, local communities, police and the national government to seek a peaceful and amicable solution to the issues at hand.
Police are appealing to anyone with information regarding the incident to come forward.
