Major General Gilbert Toropo

Prime Minister Marape attended the Commissioning ceremony yesterday, Tuesday December 28, at Murray Barracks to witness the appointment of Major General Mark Goina as the new PNGDF Commander.

As part of his address, he thanked Major General Toropo for is commendable service to the force.

Outgoing retired Major General Gilbert Toropo served many years in the force and for the past seven years was the Commander. During his term as Commander, he managed to accomplish the game changing tasks that were required of him.

He made this call after false and misleading information spreading on social media regarding the alleged locking of PNGDF armouries by the Australian Defence personnel.

Major General Toropo said people must check with the PNGDF before spreading false and unfounded information creating panic when commenting on issues of national security.

Major General Toropo was speaking at the farewell ceremony of Lt Col Boniface Aruma, who leaves this weekend for Canberra, Australia, to pursue further studies in military services.

It was only three years of taking up the office of the Commander of 1RPIR Taurama Barracks but Lt. Col Aruma had accomplished much, according to his superior, Major General Toropo.

“Lt. Col Aruma thank you for your commitment and your strong leadership. During your time we have seen so many operations,” stated Major General Toropo.