Papua New Guinea Police Commissioner David Manning has provided updates on the comprehensive investigation into payments made by the State to Paul Paraka Lawyers and selected private legal firms between 2007 and 2013. Mr.Manning affirmed that this matter is still under thorough examination, with several accused individuals awaiting full processing through the court system and verdicts on each case. "The scale of this case in terms of the misuse of public funds, as confirmed in the court's judgment against Paraka, is massive, and there is understandably a high level of public outrage," Commissioner Manning stated. He expressed concern over certain individuals attempting to exploit the court process for personal political gain, emphasizing the need to halt such actions to avoid compromising ongoing prosecutions. Commissioner Manning highlighted that over a decade has passed since the original complaint was filed by the former Solicitor General with the National Fraud and Anti-Corruption Directorate. The complaint, lodged on March 14, 2012, targeted the Department of Justice and Attorney General, as well as the Department of Finance. Since assuming the role of Commissioner in 2019, Manning directed the appropriate focus on investigations into all allegations, given the magnitude of the matter. The first case to go to trial, State vs Paul Paraka, resulted in Paraka being found guilty at the Waigani National Court and serving a custodial sentence in prison. "The prosecution of other alleged offenders is proceeding, but each case must be heard fully in court to avoid undermining subsequent investigations and trials," Manning added in his statement. He urged for patience in the legal process and emphasized the importance of maintaining its integrity to ensure a fair and just resolution to the complex case. Also read Comments are closed.
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