The Royal Papua New Guinea Constabulary’s (RPNGC) strive to strengthen professionalism, governance, accountability and transparency in the force, have launched their Drug and Alcohol Policy, which will see mandatory checks done on police personnel.
Police Commissioner David Manning stated that after taking note of current situations that are being faced by the Constabulary and society, the executives of the Constabulary continue to look into areas where they can improve on.
“This is not only limited to reforms because it is all about ensuring that we deliver a professional Police Force or service that is the pride of the country.”
“The Drug and Alcohol Policy will go a long way in instilling confidence in our communities.”
Commissioner Manning stated that this is to make sure that when the people interact with a member of the Police force, they are interacting with a member that is held to the highest professional standards and also able to demonstrate clear mind and portrays self-respect without the influence of illicit substances.
He said this policy has been a long time coming and while there are existing public service regulations in relation to drug and alcohol abuse, this must be more articulated for police, considering the type of work that they are involved in and the level of public expectations.
Manning went on to explain that the testing program seeks to identify those that are impaired by alcohol or prohibited substances whilst on or off duty.
The Commissioner believes that this will allow the force to maintain high standards whilst on official duty.