Election Security Operation in Manus is now expected to commence on Wednesday 6th of July, 2022, a delay of two days.
The Papua New Guinea Defence Force is contributing thirty personnel from HMPNGS Tarangau to support the local police and the Commanding Officer for HMPNGS Tarangau Commander (CMDR) Buni Dorea said his men are ready to support police in the election security operation.
“The troops from HMPNGS Tarangau fully equipped and are ready to deploy. Some of these members will be travelling to the outer islands with Police and the Correctional Service members for polling, “Commander Dorea said adding “I have spoken to the Provincial Police Commander and Police will support our troops with two vehicles.”
HMPNGS Tarangau is also expected to support election in Manus with the movement of polling officials from Lorengau to the Western Islands of Nigoherm and Aua-Wuvulu.
HMPNGS Ted Diro will depart Lombrum this evening with election officials and materials for these two Local Level Governments.
Provincial Police Commander for Manus, Chief Inspector Kewari Kesabi urged Manusians to refrain from causing unnecessary delay, making reference to the rumor about two extra ballot boxes that candidates alleged went on a chartered flight with non-sensitive election materials to Manus.
“This is not true and we must ensure the election process in the province runs smoothly.”
Apart from the boost in numbers from the PNGDF personnel, the Correctional Service is supporting the operation with nine personnel and additional members from the Mobile Squad in Tomaringa in East New Britain will be arriving in the province ahead of polling.
Meanwhile quality checks for Manus will be conducted today.