The Royal Papua New Guinea Constabulary (RPNGC) is set to transform police accommodation across the country, ensuring improved living conditions that uplift morale and enhance professional performance.
Deputy Commissioner and Chief of Administration Dr Philip Mitna highlighted this commitment at the groundbreaking ceremony for ten new duplexes at Mirane Barracks in Chimbu Province on Friday.
“Much of our existing police barracks infrastructure is in dire condition, and we must act swiftly to rebuild,” Dr Mitna stated.
He explained that land ownership issues remain a major obstacle, often slowing progress in key locations. However, the RPNGC remains determined to push forward with its ambitious housing initiative.
“The alternative is to demolish aging barracks and construct new, modern housing that meets contemporary standards,” he added.
Dr Mitna acknowledged the Marape-Rosso Government for its foresight in directly funding this initiative through the Special Police Assistance Program (SPAP), ensuring the project’s nationwide rollout.
The new accommodations will adhere to the RPNGC’s standardized building designs, incorporating durable materials such as brick and steel to withstand harsh conditions and reduce maintenance costs over time.
“Better housing for our officers translates to better service to the community. Improved living standards motivate police personnel to dedicate themselves fully to their duties,” he emphasized.
He further noted that alongside housing, the Constabulary remains committed to increasing police recruitment and providing adequate resources to meet the growing security demands of the population.
The selection of Mirane Barracks as the site for this project was significant because land ownership was not an issue, and the buildings exemplify the RPNGC’s standardized design approach. Chimbu is the first province to implement the H65 on slab duplex model.
Present at the ceremony were Deputy Commissioner and Chief of Regional Operations Samson Kua, Simbu Governor Noah Kool, Deputy Provincial Administrator, and senior officials from the Provincial Administration. Also in attendance were Dr Ken Kassi, CEO of the Provincial Health Authority, Mr. Gerald Philip representing the business community, and local leaders.
With government support and a clear vision, the RPNGC is determined to establish modern and sustainable police housing across Papua New Guinea, setting a new benchmark for officer welfare and professionalism.