The barrage of adverse media reports on social and mainstream media has brought the image of the Constabulary into disrepute.
Police Commissioner Gari Baki in his Christmas message said his priority now is to restore public trust and confidence in the hearts and minds of our people, and encourage them to be partners with the Constabulary in the fight against crime.
“The continuous incidents of abuse by policemen have created a feeling of animosity between police and members of the public.
“My management is committed to rebuilding this trust and confidence of the public in the Constabulary and build a new relationship based on mutual trust and understanding and respect for the law and authority,” he said.
Baki said police work in Papua New Guinea is tough because our people are tribally and culturally acquainted or connected, aggressive and more often defiant.
“But as professionals I expect policemen and policewomen to be tolerant, fair and honest in the dispensation of their duties and responsibilities.
“The Constabulary under my leadership will train and mould leaders who can understand the issues confronting our people and firmly apply the laws without infringing on the rights of our citizens.
“I intend to expand the current recruitment training at the Bomana Police College from six to eighteen months to allow the Constabulary to churn out intakes who are disciplined, well matured and subservient to the demands of policing, in Papua New Guinea.
“I will increase the recruitment age-gap from 18-35 years, purposely so that young aspiring men and women, as well as matured citizens already employed in the workforce are given the opportunity to join the Constabulary.