In a decisive move,Acting Police Commissioner Donald Yamasombi has relieved the Command of the NCD/Central Command of duties, placing him on a 21-day suspension.
The suspension comes as part of an ongoing investigation into disciplinary offenses, as stipulated by Part IV of the Police Act 1998.
Acting Commissioner of Police, Donald Yamasombi, announced the suspension, attributing it to preliminary findings from the RPNGC Internal Affairs Directorate (IAD).
The investigation focuses on the events that unfolded on Wednesday, January 10, 2024.
“Acting on the advice of the IAD Director, I have approved the suspension of the NCD/Central Commander in accordance with the requirements of the Police Act to facilitate a thorough and impartial investigation,” stated Acting Commissioner Yamasombi.
“In my capacity as Acting Police Commissioner, I have an obligation to adhere to correct administrative processes transparently, thus removing the officer from their role during this disciplinary process.”
“The member in question will have the opportunity to provide further information to investigators as required.”
Acting Commissioner Yamasombi highlighted that this suspension is the initial step in a potentially broader series, addressing the conduct of some police personnel during the events of January 10.
The Commissioner emphasized the public’s expectation for answers regarding the looting and destruction that occurred.
“The RPNGC, as a constitutionally designated Disciplined Force, operates under the Police Act, which clearly outlines disciplinary offenses in legislation.”
“As this is part of an ongoing investigation, there is limited information that can be disclosed at this point.”
“However, the public deserves leadership from their police commanders, and that was lacking on the events of last Wednesday.”
Yamasombi expressed concern over the absence of leadership on January 10, highlighting the abandonment of posts by police in the NCD/Central command to attend strike meetings.
He emphasized that police, by constitutional mandate, should prioritize their duty and not engage in strikes.
“There are alternative means to address industrial issues, and these were not followed on January 10, leaving NCD city vulnerable to criminal activity.”
“At the core of this issue lies a failure of leadership and command at the local level, with every commander responsible for maintaining discipline within their ranks,” concluded Acting Commissioner Yamasombi.