Cop, trio accused of ATM damage

A policeman and three civilians were arrested yesterday for allegedly damaging an ATM at Rainbow in Port Moresby, National Capital District.
NCD and Central police commander, Anthony Wagambie Jr confirmed the incident saying that the policeman who was attached to Gerehu Police Station, his female partner and two other men were apprehended shortly after the incident.
“Police attended to the incident as soon they could when it was reported in the morning and with the help of contracted private security, police located and identified those involved in damaging the ATM machine.
“They were brought to Boroko Police Station where they are now being held in custody while Internal Investigations unit gathers statements and CCTV footage for criminal charges to be laid.
“The policeman will also be administratively charged for disgraceful conduct,” he said.
Wagambie said that the policeman was off duty and was travelling in his private vehicle with the three civilians but will be held accountable for his own actions.
“As members of the Constabulary, we are policemen and women 24 hours, seven days a week, even while on leave or day off.
“This means our actions must be exemplary to other members of the community,” he said.
Wagambie said that the Metropolitan Supt Silva Sika has taken charge of the incident and will ensure that all those involved are dealt with.
Meanwhile, Wagambie said that the action of one member and his relatives had brought disrepute to the police force, but this would not stop police from continuing to work towards bringing back the credibility of the Constabulary.
“When we went in for training both as regular and reservist, we were told that we are members of the Constabulary 24/7.
“Unlike other jobs, we have the power to execute our duties anytime, as long as we are in the right frame of mind, not drunk, drugged or for illegal purposes.
“Therefore, we must conduct ourselves with discipline and set an example for the public to follow.
“We should not be breaking the law,” he said.
Wagambie said that the member who ended up damaging the ATM had brought disrepute to the Constabulary and he will be held accountable for his own actions as he called on all members to remember the word, “respect”.
“Before you can respect others, the rule of law, respecting authority and so forth, we must learn to respect ourselves individually.
“Respect yourself and be reminded of your purpose in life, that is, being a police officer.
“The police force has given us that authority which the blue uniform carries,” he said.