Papua New Guinean security forces have been authorised to use the full force of the law to secure the four captives being held hostage by an armed gang in Bosavi, Nipa-Kutubu, Southern Highlands province since Sunday.

Police Commissioner David Manning said the abductors were being offered “a way out”.

Manning described the gang as having no “established motive but greed”.

“We are working to negotiate an outcome, it is our intent to ensure the safe release of all and their safe return to their families. However, we also have contingencies if negotiations fail,” he said.

“It is in everyone’s interest to ensure we progress this effort as responsibly and safely as possible.”

The four captive researchers are reported to be an Australian anthropology professor and three PNG women.

“We have taken into consideration all factors and possible outcomes, we remain committed to ensuring a successful outcome,” said Commissioner Manning.

“We are satisfied with the amount of information that we are receiving, pointing us as to the area where they are kept and the identity of their captors.

‘Treated fairly’
“They can release their captives and they will be treated fairly through the criminal justice system, but failure to comply and resisting arrest could cost these criminals their lives.

“The full force of the law will be used to immobilise and apprehend the criminals,” Commissioner Manning said.

“Our specialised security force personnel will use whatever means necessary against the criminals, up to and including the use of lethal force, in order to provide for the safety and security of the people being held.”

Hela Governor Philip Undialu has called upon the captors of the four hostages to release them as they entered the second day of captivity.

In a response to questions by the Post-Courier, Governor Undialu said: “The location of the hostages is like two days’ walk from Komo with no communication network.

“The only access we have now is through a missionary based at Bosavi connected via a satellite phone.

“I have asked the LLG president, ward members and community leaders of Komo to find who’s missing in the community after speculation that some Komo youths are involved.

‘Act of terrorism’
“At this stage we do not have the identities of the individuals. Whatever the case maybe, no one has any right to abduct, kidnap, hold them hostage and ask for cash payment.

“This is an act of terrorism, like we hear of in other countries. Law enforcement agencies must take this seriously and deal with such crimes appropriately.”

His response comes after police said the armed men were allegedly from Komo in Hela.

He said that the situation was being closely monitored by the government.

Prime Minister James Marape, who is in Suva for the Pacific Islands Forum “unity” summit, has also confirmed that security personnel were monitoring the situation.

Across the nation, many people in the country have condemned the actions of the 21 men who are holding the four researchers hostage.

Republished from the PNG Post-Courier with permission.

Article by AsiaPacificReport.nz

Papua New Guinea’s Police Commissioner David Manning has promised that the full force of the law and all resources at the Constabulary’s disposal will be used against policemen who flout the law and help criminals.

Commissioner Manning’s warning followed recent threats against police detectives investigating a K286 million (NZ$105 million) fraud involving Ok Tedi trust funds.

“We had two threats issued against police detectives,” he said.

“Criminals and policemen are involved.

“I will not stand for this and whether you are a criminal or a policeman who decides to engage or attack policemen, you will be dealt with equally under lawful means.

“If you want to be a criminal or align yourself with individuals or entities and challenge the police, then you have no place in the police force and I will ensure your speedy exit … straight into prison.”

Commissioner Manning said reports of policemen continuously being deployed to provide protection for logging camps or private businesses with the full knowledge and authority of their superiors would be investigated and dealt with.

Policemen ‘denying rights to justice’
“In these instances, police resources, including firearms, are being used by these policemen to protect the interest of a few, thereby denying the rights of the majority to seek justice,” he said.

“The police force will undergo beneficial change, and those currently opposing these changes for their own reasons will be weeded out.

“The majority of policemen and women perform their duties with professionalism and dedication, yet we and the country are being let down by these few members.

“The proposed changes in the disciplinary proceedings will allow for a swifter and more effective process that protects all parties concerned whilst enhancing greater accountability and appropriate penalties being dealt out.

“In the near future, legislative amendments will be made to criminalise certain offences that have caused the discipline and performance of the police force to deteriorate.

“If we are to deliver to the people of PNG a police force that they deserve and provide a policing service that adds value to their lives, we must undergo these reforms and remove impediments now.”

Asia Pacific Report republishes The National articles with permission.

Article by AsiaPacificReport.nz