Australia begins Solomons rescue

Evacuation: Women and children first

Australia has begun evacuating hundreds of expatriates from the Solomon Islands amid fierce fighting between rival militias sparked by a coup attempt.

About 250 people, carrying hastily packed suitcases, were ferried in dinghies and landing craft to the HMAS Tobruk, anchored off the capital, Honiara,

Most of the evacuees were women and children from Australia, New Zealand and Canada.

The evacuation came as the leader of one of the rebel factions declared war, plunging the Solomons deeper into armed conflict.

Frigate

HMAS Tobruk, which can carry 800 people, will take on more expatriates who want to leave on Friday morning.

There's a war on and [our] operational plan is to be on the offensive

MEF leader Andrew Nori

Witnesses said the evacuation seemed relaxed. "We expected there to be a hassle, possibly arguments and disruptions, but it's [the evacuation] all calm and orderly," said Russell Byfield of New Zealand.

A New Zealand frigate is also expected in the Solomons on Saturday.

Rebel groups take up positions in the jungle around Honiara

An estimated 1,300 foreigners live in the Solomons, including 700 Australians and 225 New Zealanders.

Those leaving include 125 employees of the Australian firm Delta Gold who were flown by helicopter to the capital after the company suspended operations.

Hostage

The evacuation was prompted by reports that the crisis was worsening from Australia's High Commissioner in the Solomons, Martin Sharp.

Expatriates wait to embark

In the last few days, there has been fierce fighting between two ethnic rival militia groups - the Malaita Eagle Force (MEF) and the rival Isatabu Freedom Movement (IFM).

The MEF have been holding Prime Minister Bartholomew Ulufa'alu at gunpoint since Monday when they seized control of the capital.

Personally, just like any other human being... I suppose we all feared for our lives

Prime Minister Ulufa'alu

In a radio broadcast on Thursday, Mr Ulufa'alu told how he had feared for his life when the militia burst into his home.

He also called for regional intervention to restore peace to his country.

Truce

MEF leader Andrew Nori told the BBC he expected there would be a meeting of parliament next week to choose a new leader to tackle the ethnic tension.

He also said his group was considering a 14-day ceasefire during this weekend's visit by Commonwealth envoys, due to arrive on Friday.

The ceasefire would allow international flights in and out of the airport, he said.

The situation is you have two sides about to embark into a bloody conflict which could cost hundreds if not thousands of lives

Phil Goff, New Zealand Foreign Minister

On Wednesday, a plane carrying two British politicians was fired at while taking off.

Mr Nori told Radio New Zealand that he had some commitment from the IFM for a truce.

"I'm sure the tension now would be reduced over the next few days and life [will go] back to normal," he added.

He said he could understand the Australians' decision to leave but insisted Honiara was "calm" at present.

Bloodbath fear

Despite the truce offer, Mr Nori, a lawyer and former opposition leader, said the Malaitan Eagles had declared war on the IMF.

There are fears thousands could die if fighting flares up

He said the battle may be resumed after Commonwealth envoys leave. There were no reports of the IFM confirming the truce.

The MEF, representing migrants from Malaita island, are fighting to avoid being thrown off the main island of Guadalcanal - where Honiara is situated.

They have stepped up their battle against indigenous Guadalcanal islanders with weapons stolen in a raid on the armoury.

New Zealand Foreign Minister Phil Goff said he feared the violence could soon escalate.

"The situation is you have two sides about to embark into a bloody conflict which could cost hundreds if not thousands of lives," he added.