POLICE Commissioner David Manning hinted he will bring back the Reserve Police program in preparation for the 2022 National General Elections.
Commissioner Manning revealed this during the launch of the 10-year Royal Papua New Guinea Constabulary (RPNGC) Corporate Plan yesterday in Port Moresby largely due to the current state of the force.
“We are down to a strength of 6, 300 members. We are set to retire almost 600 members at the end of this year and this will further reduce our numbers.
“The lack of funding over the years has not allowed us to recruit more policemen and women, thus placing us in this predicament.
“A number of NEC decisions were made to bring the force to a 10,000 strong force by 2020 but we are unable to do so.
“Faced with this situation I have made the decision to bring back the reserve branch of the constabulary, but this time with proper coordination, and command and control, to assist us deliver a free, fair and safe 2022 National General Elections,” Manning said.
With twelve months away from the major national event for the country, the Police are now planning their security operations in support of the election process.
Commissioner Manning said his intention is to get all relevant government departments and agencies to be an integral part of the planning team and process as they all have a role to play.
“Key officers from each of the organizations will work together in one location. This will cut out duplicity, and enable us to share our intelligence and the limited funds and resources available.
“We do not have the luxury of time and resources, so I will be putting forward my intention to the Government for approval and endorsement so that we can better plan for a free fair and safer 2022 National General Elections,” Manning said.