Caption: PNGDF Commander, Major-General Mark Goina. – PICTURE: FILE PIC
By Gabriel KATUHO
PAPUA New Guinea Defence Force Commander, Major-General Mark Goina, has vowed justice for the two soldiers who died in a recent incident at Kupiano, outside Port Moresby.
He said investigations into the incident have been completed, with three suspects being identified.Goina said one of the suspects has admitted to firing the live rounds during the training activity.
“This was revealed during the interviews, as well as through a review of the records of ammunition issued,” he said.
“A postmortem was conducted on the deceased and the results are consistent with the manner in which they sustained the injuries.
“Basically, both late members were hit by high-velocity rounds fired at close range (less than 40 metres).”
“I have received the findings and recommendations made in the investigation report, and those responsible will face a military tribunal,” Major-General Goina said.
“After they have been processed, they will be handed over to police to be charged under the Criminal Code Act.”
He said a secretariat has been established to provide administrative support for case.
“I have written to the Public Prosecutor’s Office requesting that the prosecution and defence teams to be established immediately to take charge of the court cases.
“This is the first time for this kind of accident to happen the PNGDF and we are taking necessary steps to make sure this is not repeated.”
Meanwhile, Goina said he has spoken to the families of the deceased and advised them of the findings and recommendations of the investigations.
“I also informed the families that the deceased will be repatriated to their resting place no later than 9th August, 2023,” he said.
“The funeral services will be conducted at their respective units.”Goina acknowledged receiving a requests from the families.
