The PNG Defence Force has clarified that the two servicemen who were detained in Kokopo, while in breach of their leave policy, have not breached the directive issued by the PNGDF commander.
Joint Operations Commander Colonel Esekia Wenzel clarified that the two men sought leave prior to the May directive issued by the PNGDF Commander, stopping all personnel to apply for leave during the elections period.
Wenzel warned however that they did not get proper authorisation to be engaged in employment during their leave period.
He explains that this forms the basis of this morning’s directive by the office of the PNGDF Chief of staff for them to cease employment with the security firm they were attached with.
The other personnel who was detained by police was actually en route to Kavieng on emergency leave.
(Kokopo, East New Britain Province)
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