Minister for Internal Security

Tsiamalili said those found guilty for misconduct in the police force will not only be dismissed but arrested and charged with criminal offenses.

He was responding to the recent report regarding the arrest of 116 former police officers last year, where 74 are now facing discipline-related charges.

He said if a member of the Royal Papua New Guinea Constabulary commits a crime, they will be arrested, prosecuted, and subsequently dishonorably discharged from the Force.

Tsiamalili said this when speaking to the cadet recruits during their dedication service on Wednesday in Port Moresby.

He said Police officers are expected to utilize technology to prevent crime before it happens and excel in dissecting communications between criminals through the use of technology.

“PNG is currently undergoing transformation, moving from what we knew in the past and what we inspire to be in the future, where new and emerging technology is a threat,” he said. 

The Minister acknowledged that PNG grapples with various internal security issues that include violence, theft, and drug-related offences.

These threaten the safety and security of Papua New Guineans.

Minister Tsiamalili Jnr says the presence of organized crime groups and the illicit trade they engage in worsens the situation, undermining the efforts of authorities towards progress and development.

Minister Tsiamalili when launching said this comprehensive plan is a significant milestone in our commitment to ensuring security and stability, as well as fostering development and economic growth in Papua New Guinea.

“With the completion of Infrastructure Plans in all 21 provinces and the Special Region of Bougainville, we have achieved a standardized approach to building infrastructure across the country.

“These fully certified plans will guide our efforts in enhancing and modernizing our buildings and infrastructure to meet the needs of our growing nation.”

He encouraged youths in Koki to change behaviour as it doesn’t bring about justice to portraying the country and community.

“To the youths, it doesn’t cost to follow the law but it does cost money when you break the law or go against the order. Today in PNG, the population rate between Police officers and us (the people of PNG) are not the same,” stated Tsiamalili Jnr.

“I can confirm that neither the Prime Minister, James Marape nor the National Government were engaged directly with the hostage takers in relation to the terms of release or the ransom sum requested.

“Negotiations were deliberately undertaken by third parties, through an agreed operational strategy, so as to not compromise the State position on law enforcement,” Minister Tsiamalili said.

The Minister said that families of the hostages, supporters, local communities, and local authorities were engaged in the negotiations.

He stated this when responding to a question raised by Talasea MP, Freddie Kumai on the rise of lawlessness along major travelling routes in the country.

Tsiamalili Jr said these are challenges that require the support of provincial governments and other stakeholders.

“I call on provincial government officials to work with the RPNGC to ensure that they support the provincial policing plans and empower their local police.