The Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP) Divisional Commander Northern and Acting Divisional Commander for NCD and Central Province, Peter Guinness has dismissed speculative stories circulating and trending on social media alleging that Defence Minister Dr Billy Joseph had used PNG Defence Force soldiers to intimidate and threaten politicians into joining the Government rank.
Addressing reporters at Boroko Police Station, ACP Guinness labelled the claims as false and stressed the importance of providing accurate information during this period of political instability.
“These allegations are not true,” stated ACP Guinness. “Senior military officials have confirmed that close protection officers (CPOs), who are soldiers, were assigned to escort the Defense Minister due to threats he received prior to the vote-of-no-confidence (VONC) motion.”
ACP Guinness said the military command have given their assurance that they will recall the CPOs at this time of the Vote of no-confidence (VONC).
“Alot of speculative stories are circulating on social media, that is why, it is important for the authorities including the police to give accurate information to the media.”
“We must give assurance to our people and all other stakeholders, that we are doing everything possible to maintain peace and good order in NCD and Central Province at this time of political uncertainty.”