Talishe Market, once a busy hub for business has been officially closed by the Honiara City Council (HCC) due to escalating criminal activities. The decision comes after growing concerns from local leaders and residents over safety, disturbances, and increasing violence.
Speaking with Mrs. Ellen Salu, a representative of the surrounding communities, she highlighted that Talishe had become a hotspot for criminal behavior, particularly among young people. “This place used to be a centre for marketing and transport, but now it’s turned into a danger zone,” she said.
One serious incident that caused the closure involved a young man who was attacked with a stone after refusing to give money to a group of youths loitering at the market. The area has also been the subject of ongoing complaints from local community leaders about noise, unruly behavior, and road blockages caused by market stalls. Notably, access to the only road used by airlines residents was obstructed by vendors.
Mrs. Salu also expressed concern for the safety of women and visitors, citing frequent reports of harassment, theft, and even violent attacks at night. “Families living near Talishe suffer the most from these issues,” she said.
In her closing remarks, Mrs. Salu urged other hotspot areas in Honiara, facing similar issues to follow Talishe’s example. “We must work together with HCC and the police to ensure safe and peaceful communities. Closing down unsafe markets and restoring public access is the first step.”
The closure of Talishe Market serves as a reminder of the need for stronger community-police partnerships to curb crime and reclaim public spaces.
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