The National Capital District (NCD) Metropolitan Superintendent has assured concerned bus drivers and bus conductors that a thorough police investigation is being conducted into the police shooting of a bus driver over the weekend and urged them to return to work, and let police do their job.
Speaking to a casual crowd at the Unagi Oval at Gordons in Port Moresby city this morning, Superintendent Silva Sika told the crowd that the Royal Papua New Guinea Constabulary (RPNGC) is committed to carrying out a comprehensive investigation into this incident.
He said that the investigation had started as soon as the police learned of the shooting incident on the afternoon of Saturday 17th February, and promised openness and accountability throughout the proceedings.
Sika said that police officers from the Internal Affairs Unit (IAU) had been given explicit instructions to conduct a comprehensive investigation and gather all pertinent data regarding the incident.
He also underlined that the Manu Auto- Port Bus Stop, where the shooting of the driver and wounding of a police officer occurred, is a center for illegal activities and black markets and stated that ongoing measures are being taken to maintain safety and security in the area.
On that note, Mr. Sika also confirmed that the bus crew and the injured police officer are receiving care and are in a stable condition after receiving medical attention at Port Moresby General Hospital.
Sika restated that the RPNGC has a zero-tolerance policy on police officers doing wrong and that if the officers or officer involved in the shooting, are found to be in the wrong, they will be dealt with accordingly by the law.
The Met. Supt. also appealed to eyewitnesses at the scene of the incident to come forward to assist with the investigation.
“I urge key witnesses to come forward and give detailed testimony in an effort to put together how the incident occurred,” said the Met. Supt.
Meanwhile, given the significance of PMV services to the city’s transportation network, Sika requested that PMV drivers resume their regular work schedules today on onwards and let police handle the investigation.
He said that maintaining essential bus services is necessary for NCD as a whole, and also expressed gratitude to the PMV owners and employees for their efficient service to the people in the city.