Be focused, recruits told

 INDISCIPLINE, abuse of power and lack of respect for the people are never taught at police training colleges, Police Commissioner Tom Kulunga says.

He told the 223 probationary constables who passed out from the Bomana Police College last Friday that he would continue to sack police officers who failed to respect people and authority.

“Let me remind you that the uniform you wear is a symbol of law, order and peace, and it must encourage trust and respect,” Kulunga said.

The 178 men and 45 women completed a 26-week course on basic police training at the college.

The 223 officers were enlisted into the Royal Papua New Guinea Constabulary on July 13 last year.

Kulunga said it was an important occasion because it represented ongoing efforts to meet the government’s target of 8,000 regular members by 2015.

“Working under the PNG-Australia partnership programme, we are making headways towards this and other government targets,” he said.

He told the new officers that they had a golden opportunity to make a successful career for themselves in an honorable profession.

“You have a choice to become a member of RPNGC. If you find out later that it is not suitable to you, simply tender your resignation,” Kulunga said.

He challenged the new members not to jeopardise this once in a life-time opportunity by getting involved in behavior that was unlawful and harmful to their career.