Police Sergeant Fired After Probing PNG Police Commissioner Allegations

Senior Sergeant Tinol Pakiapon, who had been investigating allegations against Papua New Guinea Police Commissioner David Manning, received his dismissal letter last weekend. The letter, issued by Deputy Police Commissioner of Administration Philip Mitna, indicated that Pakiapon faced three serious disciplinary charges on May 1, including conduct discrediting to the force, causing disaffection, and insubordination. Pakiapon was found guilty of these charges and subsequently dismissed from the constabulary.

A spokesperson for the police commissioner's office confirmed the dismissal, stating, "It is an independent process as part of the RPNGC being a disciplined service."

Pakiapon, who has served 38 years as a police officer, expressed his response to the dismissal, stating, "I have done what is right and I hold my head up high knowing that my conscience is clear." He emphasized his commitment to upholding the rule of law without fear or favour throughout his career.

He disclosed that the alleged victim in the case he was handling had sought justice for over two decades with little support until she brought her case to him. "After carefully reviewing the crime report, I determined that there was ample evidence," Pakiapon explained.

Pakiapon asserted that his involvement in the case led to significant personal repercussions, including defamation, arrest, imprisonment, and his home being raided and searched. "My family has been harassed and intimidated, and now, I have been sacked without cause or due process," he stated.

He highlighted that his situation underscored a broader issue regarding the rule of law and equal protection under the law. "This is about justice for every person in the country, no matter who he or she may be," he asserted.

Pakiapon warned against the creation of a dual justice system in the democracy, stressing that no individual, including the police commissioner, should be above the law.

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