POLICE Commissioner David Manning has strongly condemned criminal actions of rogue members of Royal Papua New Guinea Constabulary (RPNGC) in Madnag last night.
In a statement today, Mr. Manning said an officer involved in the incident has been arrested, with commanding officers under investigations.
“I am aware of a video circulating regarding an incident in Madang last night, involving police members and the threatening use of firearms against civilians,” the Commissioner said.
“I am appalled by such criminal and unprofessional behavior, particularly in the handling of a firearm,” he added.
Mr. Manning said the offending member has been arrested and charged with serious criminal offenses.
“He is currently in custody and will remain in police cells until he appears before the courts.
“Such criminal and unprofessional behavior will not be tolerated. The individual involved in this incident was disarmed of his weapon by fellow police officers and will now face the legal consequences of his actions,” the Commissioner said.
“It is extremely concerning that the accused had previously been dismissed from the RPNGC in 2023 as part of my crackdown on unprofessional conduct, related to serious criminal offending. However, the National Court intervened with an injunction, directing the member to remain in uniform.
“The people of our country rightly expect more from our disciplined personnel, and under this government, we maintain a no-nonsense approach.
“I call on all segments of our community to support our efforts to remove rogue elements from our disciplined forces.”
The Commissioner said there has been a clear failure in command at the local level in Madang, and senior personnel are facing immediate administrative action.
“This means that those in local operational command will be relieved of duty until further notice and will be subject to investigation by the Internal Affairs Directorate.
“Over the past 18 months, I have dismissed more than 400 police personnel who did not meet the expectations of the oath they swore,” he said.
Mr. Manning said further information on this matter will be provided as it becomes available.
“The Prime Minister and the Minister for Police have been briefed and share my disgust at the behavior of these personnel.
“Together, we demand that the full force of the law be applied to the accused.”
