Police Commissioner David Manning has confirmed that senior officers of the Independent Commission Against Corruption (ICAC) will be investigated by police for alleged corrupt practices. Commissioner Manning in a statement, confirmed receiving a formal referral from the ICAC Commissioner, Mr. Andrew Forbes, pertaining to the conduct of senior ICAC officers. The referral includes allegations of finance irregularities and expenditure of public monies not approved by an officer authorized under the Public Finances (Management) Act 1995. Manning said the Royal Papua New Guinea Constabulary (RPNGC) has commenced initial enquires. “In accordance with established procedures, initial enquiries are being conducted by police to inform consideration of the referral by the Sensitive Investigation Board. Where the Sensitive Investigation Board assess a referral as disclosing suspicion of criminal offence, the matter will be assigned for independent investigation by the National Fraud and Anti- Corruption Directorate.” “It is the expectation of the RPNGC and that of government, that all matters relating to the transparent and legal management of public entities be held to the highest standards and scrutiny,” said the police commissioner. ICAC was established by the National Parliament to combat corrupt conduct by public official, public bodies and corruption by private individuals who may be in receipt of government funds. “It is appropriate that the anti- corruption watchdog adheres to the expectations of the nation and refers any concerns pertaining to its own personnel for independent and transparent scrutiny.” “As in all claims made in a referral to police, any accused are innocent until proven guilty in a Court of law,” said Manning.