Some of the additional RAMSI military forces sent to Solomon Islands after the unrest of April will begin to go home this weekend.

Acting Special Coordinator, Paul Ash, today said the RAMSI military will begin to reduce numbers over the weekend, when a group of Australian soldiers leaves. He said that some of the extra New Zealand soldiers who came after the riots would also be returning home soon.

Mr Ash said the military presence is being reduced to a level that meets current security needs.

“These soldiers are leaving because the situation has improved,” Mr Ash said.

“The people of Solomon Islands should be assured that we still have a very capable and ready RAMSI military force to respond to any disturbances in Solomon Islands.

“The Combined Military Taskforce includes soldiers from Australia, Fiji, New Zealand, Papua New Guinea and Tonga. It continues to support the work of RAMSI, and in particular the Participating Police Force.

“This is an important role.”

Over the weekend, residents of Honiara may hear and see a number of large military transport aircraft using Henderson airfield to transport military forces home to Australia. Mr Ash said Honiara residents should not be concerned.

The decision to begin the reduction was made in consultation with the Solomon Islands Government.