Convicted foreigners not reported to Immigration

Details of foreigners or non-citizens charged and convicted by the Courts are not reported to Immigration and Citizenship Authority (ICA) by concerned agencies.

In a statement the ICA says it stands ready to assist relevant law enforcement agencies.

The ICA says whilst there are numerous reports of non-citizens involved in illegal activities with some being prosecuted and fined by the Courts, details of these non-citizens convicted are not reported to Immigration.

Recently a major counterfeit cigarette production ring was busted at Eight-Mile, in the nation's capital; an indication of the growing trend of illegal activities undertaken by non-citizens.

ICA is requesting law enforcement agencies dealing with non offences to involve Immigration in cases concerning non individuals and their companies who were charged so that appropriate actions can be taken to deal with these individuals.

"Having a good character is a requirement for residency in Papua New Guinea and if non citizens are not complying with the laws of the country then their visa status will be reviewed," said Chief Migration Officer, Solomon Kantha.

"Unlawful non-citizens and those engaged in illegal activities are not welcome to continue to reside in this country."

The ICA says it will reach out to government law enforcement agencies concerned to ensure there is a mechanism in place to cooperate on investigations concerning non-citizen and where information sharing is promoted among agencies.

(Filepic: Chief Migration Officer, Solomon Kantha)

 

Author: 
Cedric Patjole