Army clarifies operations

A press conference was held yesterday afternoon to help clarify for Port Moresby residents who were left in shock as military troops staged vehicle checkpoints along the city’s backroads.

The NCD Metropolitan Superintendent, Perou N’Dranou, and the Operations commander, Colonel Boniface Aruma, were both present to address the media.

Colonel Aruma also took the opportunity to dispel any misunderstanding or panic caused by the operations.

He outlined that this exercise was in line with the normal Military Rehearsal Exercises that were run as part of their lead-up APEC operations.

The NCD Met Supt also explained that police traffic officers will be liaising with the troops to deal with any law and order issues that may arise from the vehicle checkpoints.

N’Dranou says he welcomed the setup of the road checks as it also helped police to establish a working partnership with their army comrades while helping them maintain law and order in the city.

Meanwhile, the current exercise will involve vital asset protection, vehicle check, urban patrols as well as combat fitness assessment activities for the defence personnel.

Author: 
Julianna Waeda