Deputy Commissioner of Police Operations Jim Andrews issued a stern warning to all security forces including Police, Defence and Correctional Services personnel engaged in the 2017 National Election security operations to take neutral stand.
The directive is to control the misuse of delegated duties, to minimise the abuse of police powers and corrupt practices during the polling and counting periods.
Andrews said due to the importance of casting of votes and counting of ballot papers he has directed that tight security and safety will be maintained by Police, Defence and CS personnel in all polling and counting locations throughout the country.
“I have issued specific directives to all Regional and Provincial Police Commanders to maintain and issue these directives to all police personnel under their charge to be neutral at all times,” Deputy Commissioner Andrews said.
He further directed that security personnel are:
· Not to compromise their positions and duties with any person;
· Not harass or intimidate voters for their favourite candidates;
· Not to provide police escorts to candidates during campaigns, polling and counting periods; and
· To at all time to safe-guard a free, fair and safe 2017 National General Elections for PNG.
“I want to see the Regional and Provincial Police Commanders and all police personnel at the highest level to maintain their commitment, dedication and loyalty to duty to the Police Commissioner and his senior Management.
“Any police personnel of any ranks disobey or ignore these directives will be removed from his or her operational location and to be dealt with by law,” Andrews said.
Loop file picture