POLICE in the Simbu province have commenced their pre-election operations to ensure a free, fair and safe 2022 National General Election is delivered, says Simbu Provincial Police Commander (PPC) Superintendent David Warap.
Mr Warap said police personnel in Simbu are now into the third week of pre-election operations. They have completed their awareness in the Kerowagi district and are organising with the respective District Development Authorities (DDA) to conduct awareness in the other districts as well.
Mr Warap said whilst conducting awareness they told people not to ask and receive bribes and avoid double voting during the polling periods. The people were also informed of election related offences and penalties for these offences.
“The public were informed of their rights to vote without fear or favour, and to vote the best people into office,” Mr Warap said.
The people were strongly warned that the use of firearms would not be tolerated during the elections. He said people in the highlands use firearms especially during the elections to show strength between tribes to gain favour and political support but this will not be tolerated or entertained.
Mr Warap said the province is very quiet at the moment with no major election related incidents reported.