THE Hela Provincial Government has become one of the first provincial administrations in Papua New Guinea to directly fund Special Services Division (SSD) training for police officers from its own budget.
The Hela-based Police Mobile Squad completed its training today at the McGregor Mobile Squad Base in Port Moresby, following full financial support from the Hela Provincial Government.
Deputy Director of the PNG Police Mobile Squad Directorate at McGregor, Chief Superintendent Florien Luvi, commended the Hela Provincial Government for stepping forward to support the training of Mobile Squad officers based in the province.
He said the training was timely and essential, and challenged other provincial governments to similarly invest in the training of Mobile Squad units operating within their jurisdictions. Chief Superintendent Luvi added that upon completion of training, officers would return to their respective provinces to provide policing services.
Speaking on behalf of Hela Provincial Government leaders and the people of Hela, Executive Officer Amos Libe thanked the McGregor Mobile Squad Base for delivering the training, describing it as a major boost to law and order efforts in the province.
Mr Libe said the provincial government’s support went beyond training. He revealed that 32 new police houses had been constructed in Hela and would be officially opened next week when the officers return. He also announced that 10 new police vehicles have been purchased and will be presented during the same event to welcome back MS09 members.
He added that construction of the remaining houses-part of a total 100-unit housing project was progressing and would be completed soon.
Mr Libe said Hela Province is serious about addressing law and order issues, noting that sustained investment in police housing, vehicles and equipment is aimed at attracting more officers to serve in the province.
He confirmed that the provincial government invested more than K500,000 in the training program, covering training costs and essential gear required by the officers.
On behalf of the Hela Provincial Government, Mr Libe thanked Police Commissioner David Manning and his management for approving the training request. He also acknowledged the Papua New Guinea Defence Force personnel
from Goldie who assisted in the training program.
He said the trained officers would not only serve Hela Province but would also be available for deployment across Papua New Guinea when required.