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Alert

PINA pleased with response to its concerns over police treatment of photographer

(PINA/IFEX) - The Pacific Island News Association is pleased to be able to report that a satisfactory resolution has been identified in the recent incidents involving the "Vanuatu Daily Post" and its photographer, Marc Neil-Jones. PINA had previously reported that Neil-Jones was assaulted, improperly imprisoned and confined for a considerable length of time.

Commissioner Arthur Caulton, in a conversation with PINA President Ken Clark, has stated, "I have strongly condemned the actions of the Vanuatu Police Force in the incidents surrounding the recent rugby game and the subsequent detention of Mr. Marc Neil-Jones."

While stating that, in the normally accepted meaning of the word, Neil-Jones was not "assaulted" in that he was not physically harmed, Caulton went on to express concern for the actions of the police's rugby team supporters as well.

PINA has accepted Caulton's view and expressed appreciation for his attitude and approach.

Caulton also indicated that the incident would be investigated further and implied that appropriate action would be taken as warranted.

Neil-Jones has not ruled out legal action against the police force and/or the individuals involved in the incident.

PINA will monitor further developments in this case and report further as the need arises.