110 PNGDF personnel deployed

The 110 PNG Defence Force personnel deployed this morning will act as a support unit to police on ground in Mendi.

This was outlined by the PNGDF Chief-of-Staff, Philip Polewara, who says the men are tasked with the intent to help restore law and order in the tension-filled area.

Polewara also clarified that the reinforcement from Tari will be sent back to their area of operations once the troops have been settled in.

He said the defence troops were pulled in on Friday to provide additional coverage after a directive was issued by the defence minister.

Following this morning's deployment, the Tari unit will be retracted to safeguard their posts.

Polewara adds that other units in neighbouring Highlands posts are now on high alert in anticipation for any spillover from the tensions in Mendi.

Author: 
Julianna Waeda