PNGDF soldier

The 21-year-old from Mendi, Southern Highlands Province, was arrested last week. He was charged with two counts of sexual penetration.

It is alleged he sexually assaulted a 14 year-old girl on two occasions between April and May 2017.

Manus Provincial Police Commander, Chief Inspector David Yapu, told Loop PNG he was caught red-handed on the second alleged occasion by families of the victim.

A complaint placed at the police station led to his arrest.

The man is currently in police custody and is expected in court next Monday.

Joe Mondo went before Magistrate Maristella Painap on Friday where his charge was read and explained to him in court.

His case will go for trial on Jan 26 after he pleaded not guilty to the allegations against him.

He was arrested and charged with being in possession of a pistol without a license, a charge under Section 27 (a) of the Firearms Act.

It is alleged on Dec 31, 2016 , he had a P-85 calibre pistol in his possession along the Taurama road when he did not have a license.

The body of the woman was discovered inside the Igam Army Barracks over a fortnight ago.

In a statement, the police said the suspect is the son of a serving PNGDF soldier. He was taken into custody by police detectives after their investigations.

The suspect was the deceased’s boyfriend.

“With the help and assistance of eye witnesses, police carried out a thorough investigation and managed to identify and have the suspect arrested,” the police said in a statement.