Papua New Guinea Opposition Raises Alarm Over Allegations Against Police Commissioner

Papua New Guinea Opposition Raises Alarm Over Allegations Against Police Commissioner

The Papua New Guinea Opposition has voiced grave concerns regarding serious criminal allegations against Police Commissioner David Manning. The Commissioner has been accused of rape by an alleged victim in a video that has rapidly spread online.

The Opposition insists that Commissioner Manning should voluntarily step aside to facilitate an independent investigation by a competent legal body. Emphasizing the gravity of the situation, they urge the public to offer sympathy to the victim rather than skepticism, acknowledging the severe nature of the allegations against the head of the Royal Papua New Guinea Constabulary (RPNGC).

“There is no statute of limitations on the crime of rape,” the Opposition stated, highlighting the necessity for the justice system to thoroughly and properly process the matter.

The alleged victim, who appears in the widely circulated video, claims to have faced intimidation and expresses fear of the police force's leader. The Opposition underscored that victims of sexual abuse often conceal their trauma due to fear of retaliation and further suffering.

The allegations against Commissioner Manning cast a shadow over the Office of the Police Commissioner, potentially tarnishing its integrity. The Opposition also condemned the recent termination of the investigating officer involved in the case, suggesting it might be an attempt to undermine the rule of law and obstruct justice.

"It is hardly coincidental that the police officer assisting the alleged victim has been terminated," the Opposition noted, indicating possible efforts to suppress justice within the Police Force.

The Opposition has called on Prime Minister James Marape to initiate an independent investigation into both the victim's allegations and the dismissal of Detective Pokiapon. They demand that Commissioner Manning be suspended pending the inquiry's outcome.

With the matter now gaining national and potential international attention, the Opposition emphasizes the urgent need for swift action to address the considerable harm inflicted on the office of the Commissioner and the RPNGC.

The call to action is clear: Prime Minister Marape must act decisively to restore trust and ensure justice is served.

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