Police Commissioner David Manning says the security forces are committed to a free, fair, safe and corruption free 2022 National General Election.
Mr Manning made this comment following the security forces’ interception and confiscation of police and PNG Defence Force uniforms on a private charter from Port Moresby to Komo in the Hela Province. Security forces also confiscated a Sig pistol from a person who was at the Komo airport to meet the flight.
“I can confirm that we have confiscated one blue field uniform, three police Number One long pants with a GB boot as well as one set of what appears to be PNG Defence Force camouflage uniform, one shirt and one short trousers. We have these items in police custody and investigations that are now being conducted to ascertain who they belong to.
“Also on the same day the security forces confiscated a Sig pistol from a member of the public who was at the Komo Airport to meet the flight. We will investigate this as well to ascertain whether this is a licensed firearm and whether the suspect has a permit to carry.
“The role of a member of the security forces in the Komo incident is also now under scrutiny. Our investigations will also cover those who chartered the aircraft as well as the role of the ground staff at the Komo Airport.
“Make no mistake, the security forces, as a collective body, are committed to ensuring that the environment around the country is conducive for an election that will be free, fair, safe and free from corrupt practices.
“That is our commitment to our 11 million people and we will not be deterred from this. However, there will be individuals from within who may conspire and collude with others to try to tamper with the process to influence the outcome of the election, but they will not succeed as shown in Komo.
“In conclusion I wish to also appeal to our good citizens to be responsible in their posts and comments on social media. Sometimes the truth is far from what you think it is, so be wise and refrain from spreading speculations or rumours until the information has been confirmed by the authorities. Words are powerful and can make or our break society.”