Acting Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP) for Special Operations Donald Yamasombi launched the Police Patrol Vessel (PPV) Manning in Kokopo East New Britain (ENB) last week in time for election duties.
The Police asset is about 9.5 meters long and can travel distances. It will cover the islands and coastline areas of ENB as well as New Ireland province too.
Mr Yamasombi said it was a timely present to the province as it can be used during the election period.
“A lot of time we give out 23-foot motor boats throughout the country and that is not sufficient to cover our maritime provinces,” said Mr Yamasombi.
Mr Yamasombi thanked the Director of Water Police Chief Inspector (CIP) Chris Smith who accompanied him to present the boat.
He said a total of seven provinces have received a police boat so far. The Constabulary is now looking at building the water police capacity to improve policing services to the people of the islands and coastlines.
“A lot of time we give out vehicles for police work on the land and tend to neglect those on the islands and coastline with no police presence, therefore going forward the Police Force is looking into the areas that need our attention most,” he said.
Divisional Commander for New Guinea Islands Police Assistant Commissioner (ACP) Perou N’Dranou thanked MR Yamasombi and the police top management and assured them that the boat will be put to good use to reach areas they have not reached before to serve the people.