David Manning

The announcement of his transfer comes after he was sidelined for a month pending investigations into the activities of January 10^th that left the city in chaos. The investigation concluded last week.

Commissioner of Police David Manning in a statement said the update in command position in the police force was created to strengthen the delivery of security services.

Manning said it is essential that the police force has the right person in roles that draw on their experience and capabilities to provide for the enforcement of law and order in the country.

Manning warned that those engaging in the falsification of police documents would face grave legal repercussions, including potential penalties of up to K100,000 in fines and a staggering 25 years of imprisonment.

He issued the direction under the Commissioner’s function as the Controller under the National Pandemic Act that is still in force as the PNG economy continues the long recovery from this period.

“The economic damages caused by the global pandemic still lingers and, in my capacity, I will not let this disagreement between BPNG and Puma set back our recovery,” he said.

Manning said these are big organisations who should have systems in place to prevent their disputes from escalating to the point of costing livelihoods and lives.

The suspect, Fiebik Simon, while allegedly under the influence of alcohol, used a firearm to threaten a woman in the National Capital District and refused to surrender his weapons to police.

Commissioner Manning, as the Registrar of Firearms, cancelled Simon’s two gun licences and forfeited his firearms to the custody of the state.

The three focus areas for the RPNG to achieve this intent include;

1. Grow and improve RPNGC
2. Build a safer PNG
3. Strengthen Partnership, Government and Accountability

“We will look at growing the probationary constable numbers by 500 including 30 constables for the Bougainville Police Service and an increase of Commissioned officers by 60.

“Evolve the accommodation policy to encourage good performance and commence implementation of rolling out infrastructure maintenance and police accommodation,” he added.

Commissioner Manning said following the initial outbreak of violence a week ago, security forces have been working closely with candidates and supporters, and with community leaders to prevent any incidents.

“We thank all of those who have pitched in to work together and plan for a peaceful conclusion to the election in the National Capital District,” Mr Manning said.

Manning made this comment when disputing a recent post on social media that alleged that he had threatened policemen and ordered the release of the K1.56 million confiscated in Hela Province.

“That is totally false. The cash in question is still in police custody,” he stated.

“Five individuals arrested over this incident are currently in police custody. Police investigation into this matter is still progressing.

“As I have previously stated, the public will be informed once the investigation is completed.

The Australian Federal Police under the ambit of the PNG-Australia Policing Partnership made renovations to the police station.

Commander of the NCD/Central Command, Assistant Commissioner Anthony Wagambie Junior said a parade will be staged and the Commander of the Australian Federal Police deployment in PNG, Assistant Commissioner Jamie Strauss will accompany Commissioner Manning to the opening.

Commissioner Manning said the success of the elections will depend on the citizens, in ensuring that citizens exercise their democratic right safely and fairly.

Election- related deaths in Papua New Guinea is almost normal for every other National General Election.

As the country prepares to issue writs at the end of April, Police Minister William Onglo said Elections in the country has always been volatile, especially in the highlands region.