Five men will face court to defend the charges against them after being released yesterday, charges in relation to the looting of a cash machine in Waigani on 20th January. Commissioner Manning after his recent reappointed stressed the release was due to the unacceptable administrative shortcoming that are being resolved as part of ongoing reforms in the NCD/Central Command. “This situation is unacceptable and my directives to NCD command are clear.” “The court has to follow its process and the RPNGC takes responsibility for the factors contributing to this situation, but the accused should not be back in the community.” “In a time, the NCD/Central police command was an effective policing beacon but has been left to decline by operational command in recent years.” “Reforms to operational effectiveness are continuing in the NCD/Central Police Command to end shortcomings which have developed after years of decaying on the ground leadership.” “Transport problems prevented the suspect form the court proceedings in Waigani, they were held on remand in Bomana Prison.” “They’ve been advised that they will be charged and arrested in relation for their involvement in the looting on 10th January this year,” said Commissioner Manning. Court facility in Bomana is currently not being used for court, forcing transport to be provided dependent on court cases loads. Transportation of prisoners is one among several issues that plague the NCD/Central Command over the last three years. Many cases under remand involve desperate individuals that will use any means to escape custody. Commissioner Manning stressed directives have been addressed for the immediate strengthening of systems by the NCD/Central Command to ensure prisoners can be transported in a secure manner and effective judicial systems are encouraged. “Major changes have been carried out to bring the NCD/Command back on track, with new current operation leaders in the command can resolve these critical issues.” “All procedural proceedings can be heard at the Bomana court facility in the future which will facilitate an easier prisoner transportation.” “The focus of police will continue to secure transportation of prisoners, and the highest level of accountability for those responsible for the delivery of community policing services in our nation’s capital, until this matter is properly resolved,” said Commissioner Manning.