Atiyafa plans probe into missing police funds

 By BEATRICE BONAKOYA

AN investigation into missing funds in the police force will start soon, Police Minister Robert Atiyafa says.

The missing funds dates back to 2012 and amounts to millions of kina. They were for the upgrading of roads and police stations around the country.

Atiyafa told The National that the investigations would include K3.1 million allocated by the Government in 2012 for the establishment of a National Forensic Centre.

He has asked officers to provide reports on the missing funds but is yet to receive any.

“I was working on putting up an investigation. I am now working on the terms of reference. It has become a concern for myself too,” he said. 

He said he would make an announcement next week after officers had submitted reports on the missing funds.

“There are incomplete buildings and roads leading to police stations and barracks around the country. I’m still waiting for reports.”

The police force is undergoing a modernisation programme which will address issues such police housing and welfare.

Cabinet recently appointed Gari Baki as Police Commissioner,  replacing Geoffrey Vaki.