Papua New Guinea Defence Force operating at PNG-Indonesian Border has been praised for their effort in clamping down on illegal activities along the border.
This was revealed by West Sepik Governor Amkat Mai during a high profile visit by the PNGDF Chief of Joint Operations, Colonel Ezekia Wenzel, to the Governor's Office last Wednesday in Vanimo, West Sepik Province.
Mai applauded the soldiers’ effort following a recent intervention at the Wutung border that caught three truckloads of Asian goods, without receipts, that bypassed Customs and were heading into Vanimo Township.
Mai said he is happy that the soldiers intervened and stop the three trucks.
“Double checking should always be considered at all times. If they are cheating along the border that means they are cheating our country. Therefore it is important to double check goods coming in from the border,” said Mai.
He said PNGDF soldiers did a great job by supporting police in clamping down on law and order issues in Vanimo.
He added that Vanimo town in the near future will see an increase in economic activities, therefore this will also have an impact on our security.
Plans are now underway to upgrade and install power supply into the border securities at Wutung border. Mai said this will include installation of power supply to all security agencies’ residence, equipment and facilities to boost their operation.
There should be collaborative effort between the security agencies like Papua New Guinea Defence Force, Royal PNG Constabulary, PNG Customs and National Agriculture Quarantine and Inspection Authority, said the Governor.
Colonel Wenzel, on behalf of the Commander of PNGDF, thanked the Governor and his provincial administration for supporting their security forces, especially the soldiers operating in their province.
Wenzel said the Papua New Guinea Defence force belongs to the people therefore the force is always ready to support the province as their secondary task by providing logistical support and other services.