PNGDF Commander Dismisses Recruitment Claims as “False and Misleading”

PORT MORESBY, April 1, 2026

Papua New Guinea Defence Force (PNGDF) Commander, Rear Admiral Philip Polewara, has dismissed recent media reports regarding alleged irregularities in the force’s recruitment process, describing them as “false and misleading.”

Rear Admiral Polewara said reports attributing statements to Deputy Chief of Defence Force Brigadier General Opa Lari Opa were incorrect and should not be taken as factual.

“The figures published in relation to internal investigations on recruitment and attributed to the Deputy Chief of Defence Force are false and misleading,” he said.

He confirmed that investigations into alleged corrupt practices surrounding the 1/26 recruitment drive are still ongoing, and no conclusions have been reached.

“No conclusive information and recommendations have been put forward as yet. Once the investigations are completed, a report will be furnished to the Defence Council,” he said.

The PNGDF Commander also refuted a report published in The National on Wednesday, April 1, claiming that 100 recruits at Goldie River Training Depot had exceeded the age limit.

“The Deputy Chief of Defence Force had on no occasion made such a statement,” Rear Admiral Polewara stated.

He urged media organizations to exercise responsibility and verify information before publication, stressing that PNGDF recruitment is a matter of national importance.

“It is important that the media communicates factual and truthful information to our people,” he said.

Rear Admiral Polewara reassured the public that the PNGDF remains committed to upholding high standards in its recruitment processes.

“We will ensure the force brings in the best people to serve our nation and communities,” he added.

He highlighted ongoing reforms within the force since 2023, including cleaning up the payroll system, restoring its control to Murray Barracks, initiating audits within the maritime element, and transitioning to online-based recruitment selections.

The Commander acknowledged that recruitment challenges, including bribery and the wantok system, are longstanding issues.

“Issues with recruitment are legacy issues. Incidences of bribery and wantok system among others have been ongoing,” he said.

He explained that the introduction of online recruitment systems was aimed at addressing undue interference in the process.

“Those found to have interfered, without authority, with the recently concluded recruitment drive will be dealt with in accordance with established military discipline procedures,” he warned.

Rear Admiral Polewara emphasized that maintaining the integrity of the PNGDF remains a top priority.

“The integrity of our institution remains paramount, and any breach of trust will be addressed with the seriousness it deserves,” he said.