The Marape-Rosso Government plans to strengthen the Royal PNG Constabulary over the next decade by increasing police numbers to 10,000 from the current 6,300 and involving PNG Defence Force members in special situations.
Prime Minister James Marape emphasized this during Parliament, responding to concerns raised by Member for Vanimo-Green, Belden Namah, about rising law and order issues.
Marape acknowledged the severity of the situation and assured that his government is committed to addressing it through increased budgetary support and administrative measures.
The government aims to recruit and train more police officers each year until reaching the target of 10,000 personnel, with 500 recruits currently undergoing training and plans for continuous recruitment.
But Opposition’s Alternative Prime Minister Allan Bird, in a press conference, responded that with certain regions having continual law and order issues, it is not enough to wait for police recruits to undergo training.
He said the country needs to have a disciplinary force ready to deal with quelling law and order issues such as a current massacre events in Enga.
Similar sentiments were expressed by Vanimo Green MP Namah and Opposition Leader Douglas Tomuriesa.
Marape however, in parliament reassured the public that budgetary allocations have been substantially raised to K200 million annually, totalling K400 million, for police force rehabilitation.
Marape highlighted the need for a stronger police force, given the disproportionate ratio of officers to citizens, and emphasized continuous training to enhance capacity.
Additionally, the government plans to involve the Defence Force in domestic security operations and collaborate with international partners like the United States and Australia.
Beyond police reform, efforts are underway to rehabilitate the Magisterial Services and expand the judiciary system to address case backlogs and improve access to justice.
Through bilateral agreements, Australia will support the appointment of additional judges to expedite legal proceedings.
Marape affirmed the government’s holistic approach to addressing the law and justice sector’s challenges, emphasizing ongoing efforts to rebuild and strengthen the system.