Prime Minister Marape Initiates Commission of Inquiry into Police Operations

 Papua New Guinea Prime Minister James Marape has declared the establishment of a Commission of Inquiry to thoroughly examine the operations of the Royal Papua New Guinea Constabulary. The decision comes following a crucial National Executive Council meeting held on Wednesday, January 24, on the eve of the State of Emergency (SOE) expiration at midnight on January 25.

While highlighting the lapse of the SOE, Prime Minister Marape stressed the continuation of special callout operations involving police from outside of Port Moresby and PNG Defence Force soldiers. The Prime Minister also reiterated ongoing legislative efforts to empower soldiers to intervene in the absence of police, ensuring the maintenance of law and order, as witnessed on January 10, 2024.

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In a series of reinstatements and suspensions, Prime Minister Marape announced the reinstatement of suspended Police Commissioner David Manning and suspended Personnel Management Secretary Taies Sansan. However, Deputy Police Commissioner Dr. Phillip Mitne, who served as Acting Police Commissioner on January 10, has been suspended.

The suspension of Manning, Sansan, Finance Secretary Sam Penias, and Treasury Secretary Andrew Oaeke is pending a comprehensive investigation into the events leading to the disturbances of January 10, 2024. While Penias and Oaeke remain suspended, Prime Minister Marape addressed the preliminary reports on the incident during a Cabinet session on Wednesday, January 24.

“Cabinet has reviewed the preliminary reports on the regrettable incident of January 10,” Prime Minister Marape stated. “The reports have underscored the need to strengthen police systems.

“We are initiating a Commission of Inquiry to scrutinise the entire operations, structure, and functionality of police operations.

“The Minister for Justice and Attorney-General has been tasked with appointing a judge to lead the Commission of Inquiry into the comprehensive review of police operations.

“Commissioner Manning has received clear instructions that there must never be another incident of breakdown in command as witnessed on January 10.

“A thorough investigation is ongoing and will determine the involvement of individuals.

“The Government views this as an opportunity to enhance the efficiency of the Police force.

“I want to assure Police rank-and-file and command that if you were not involved in breaking the law, there is nothing to fear.

“Those found guilty of breaking the law will face appropriate penalties.

“The country is greater than any one of us; the rule of law must prevail, and those entrusted with policing the law must fulfill their duty at all times.”

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