Security operations underway in Manus

A Joint Security Force comprising of regular and reservist police, PNGDF soldiers and Correctional Service started their security operations for the 2017 National General Election in Manus on Monday.

Manus Provincial Police Commander, Chief Inspector David Yapu, said the personnel were given a briefing on Saturday and are now out in full force.

Foot beat and motorist patrols, roadblocks and raids of suspected areas for homebrew, drugs and firearms, will be conducted during the operation.

PPC Yapu said the team will also be carrying out awareness on election related offences, monitor the sale of liquor and black markets, as well as monitor campaign activities.

Raids will also be conducted for wanted suspects, prison escapees and persons wanted by the courts on bench warrant.

As part of the election operations, Yapu said he wants to clean up Lorengau town and the LLGs in the province before polling begins on June 24.

And the Joint Security Forces will only provide security operations for the Election to ensure it is conducted safely and peacefully without any form of disruption.

He commended the candidates and their supporters for conducting peaceful and orderly campaigns so far in the province.

The PPC further said the people of Manus must take ownership of their elections to ensure that it is free, fair and safe.

Despite limited resources in the province, PPC Yapu said two police boats, including vehicles, will be utilised to achieve the desired outcome in the election operations.

Yapu said he does not want voters to be influenced by candidates or supporters to buy votes by money or goods, as such practice is illegal and amounts to bribery and corruption.

(Picture of PPC Yapu in front of the Lorengau Police Station)

Author: 
Sally Pokiton