The Commissioner of Police David Manning has confirmed that a serving police officer has been arrested and charged with attempted murder, deprivation of liberty, and firearms offences following a shooting in the nation's capital on Tuesday 11th November.

Commissioner Manning said the officer has been suspended, arrested and taken to the Internal Affairs Division Headquarters with separate criminal and administrative processes underway. He underlined the allegations as “serious”, confirming that Internal Affairs arrested and charged the officer after a Port Moresby shooting left a man wounded.

While acknowledging the matter, Commissioner Manning highlighted the commitment of the Royal Papua New Guinea Constabulary (RPNGC) to the accountability by all police officers.

“Police personnel have more responsibility than anyone to abide by the law, by virtue of the positions they occupy and the oaths they have sworn.”

“The RPNGC will not shy away from accountability in the execution of our duties. Where a member fails to exercise their duties professionally and accordingly to law, they will be held accountable.”

“The accused is entitled to his day in court, but we will ensure accountability is upheld in the service of our communities.”

Furthermore, Manning shed light on the recent arrest as well of a long serving police officer for attempting to elicit a bribe, by two cadet officers. He said their action shows the integrity and professionalism and represents the nature of a police officer.

“Last week two Officer Cadets demonstrated their integrity and professionalism when they arrested an older policeman who had been attempting to elicit a bribe.”

“Well done to these young men, they are the type of person we need in our police.”