By Staff Reporter

Inquiry Reveals PNG Police Officers Illegally Requesting Fuel Money for Arrests

9/11/2024

An inquiry into the Royal PNG Constabulary has uncovered cases of police officers unlawfully requesting fuel money from complainants before pursuing arrests. Former Assistant Commissioner of Police for the National Capital District and Central, Anthony Wagambie Jnr, testified as a State witness on Tuesday, noting that any such practice is illegal. He urged citizens to report incidents of officers demanding fuel fees, stressing that police are obligated to respond to complaints without imposing extra costs on the public.

Wagambie explained that police officers have no legal right to ask complainants for money to cover operational expenses, such as fuel, in order to perform their duties. “If anyone encounters this, they should report it to the constabulary management, as it is against the law for duty officers to make such demands,” he stated, reinforcing that the police force exists to serve the community.

Justice Ellenas Batari, who is presiding over the inquiry, voiced his concern upon hearing of the practice, describing it as both unlawful and troubling. "It is the duty of police officers to assist the public and execute arrests when a complaint is filed," Batari emphasized, condemning any demand for fuel money as contrary to the responsibilities of the police force.

Wagambie further noted that the Royal PNG Constabulary (RPNGC) is committed to addressing misconduct within its ranks, adding that complaints regarding such behavior have been met with warnings and disciplinary action where necessary.

The inquiry was scheduled to continue with testimony from the Assistant Commissioner of Police for the Northern Command on Wednesday. However, the session was postponed, and later announcements confirmed that Judge Batari’s illness had caused a further delay, with the hearing expected to resume at a later date.

Also read