Immigration officers, soldiers arrested during Easter

PNG Immigration officers and soldiers were among people arrested this Easter long weekend in Manus during the Police Special Easter Operations.

The four officers were among seven arrested for drunk driving in Lorengau.

PPC Manus, Chief Inspector David Yapu, was frustrated to see the Immigration officers with PNGDF soldiers and civilians misusing hired vehicles, drinking alcohol and driving around in vehicle intended for the use of refugee operations on the island.

Police allege the group, while under the influence of alcohol, also went to a residence and assaulted the owner of a house at ward 1 as well as damaged his properties.

The police boss said the behaviour of the two PNGDF soldiers was unacceptable, especially from a disciplined organisation.

Arrested by police on Saturday, the two Immigration officers were charged for permitting person to drink on moving motor vehicle whilst the two PNGDF soldiers were charged with three counts of assault, damaging properties and drinking on a moving vehicle.

They are expected to appear in the District Court on Wednesday, 24 April.

Meanwhile, two youths from Buyang were surrendered to police by their parents after they consumed homebrew and disrupted Easter service this weekend.

PPC Yapu with members of the Mobile Squad 02 attended to Buyang village and met with a ward councilor before arresting two youths. A church elder and other youths managed to escape after causing the fight.

PPC Yapu commended his officers with Mobile Squad 02 on a good work during their Easter operation and also thanked the rest of the people in Manus for their common sense and maturity in celebrating Easter peacefully in the Province.

Author: 
Sally Pokiton