Constantinou case suspects among 53 escapees at large

mlipen National, Normal

A CONVICTED prisoner sentenced to life imprisonment and three detainees allegedly involved in the murder of businessman Sir George Constantinou last December are among 53 escapees still at large after a mass jailbreak from Bomana prison on Sunday. 
National Capital District police commander Chief Supt Fred Yakasa yesterday told a media conference police and Correctional Services had a massive task in recapturing them, appealing to the community to assist with any leads of the prisoners’ whereabouts.
Chief Supt Yakasa urged families and friends of the escapees not to harbour the criminals as it was illegal, adding that those caught doing so would be charged.
He further called on CS administrations and management to widen their scope of investigations to determine why officers responsible were “relaxed” during their time of duty.
He said any harm done to the community would result from the irresponsibility and relaxed actions of officers deployed at that time.
He said those who escaped included very hardcore criminals and it would be very hard to recapture them, adding that although it would not be an easy task, police would be working closely with CS to recapture the escapees.
He also admitted police manpower on the day was all focused on the international match between the visiting Australian Prime Minister’s XIII and PNG, but he had sent out two units after learning of the incident.
The escaped convicts are: Kirk Kirihau Harisu, Chris Awan, Keru Opuru, Mario Samuel, Robert Ride, Luksy Lalatute, Awi Peter, Tumai Kopa, Hariki Badi, Andrew Gumari, Paul Allan Jnr, Peter James, John Harry, Kelly Leo Dama, Linus Oa, Paul Gupa, George Tiki, Jerry Lavi Kore, Robert Amato, Peter Kunma and Hungi Kos.
The remandees are: Kirol Hau, Albert Aiaba, Paul Gumasa, Jimmy James, Farapo Masu, Ronald Wafia, Chris Allan (recaptured), Peter Ronny, Daniel Allan, Gori Tom, Solo Steven, Andy Max Yapo, Jimmy Steven, Michael Gema, John Karo, Paul Arai, Alex Makario, Moimo Moimo, David Laurance, Peter Awi, Bongi Kenedy, Jonathan Bawai, John Marthin Gani, Junior Daniel Ate, Moimo Anthon Keru, Mako Moirot, Vincent Bawi, Peto Kipi, Arua Naime Sikoni, Billy James Pirika, Tia Horua, Henry Hariki and Daru Papa Rio.