East Sepik police hunt for pistol thief

By GABRIEL FITO
POLICE in East Sepik are still looking for the men who stole a pistol from a police vehicle at the main shopping centre in Wewak last Monday.
Provincial police commander Chief Supt Joe Poma said the men were known to police and had been changing locations frequently to
avoid arrest.
“We know their identities but they are moving around different places to evade arrest.
“However, we are confident of apprehending them and appeal for public support by way of reporting new or suspicious faces in their areas,” Poma said.
The 15-round Magnum pistol issued to Wosera police was locked inside the police vehicle. The men managed to open the vehicle door and took the gun.
Poma said the weapon was a threat to public safety while in the wrong hands.
There are other high-powered guns reported missing before Poma took over early this year which have not been recovered by police.
It includes two AR15 assault rifles, a pump-action shotgun and two magnum
pistols.
“A total of six firearms, and I am concerned about the threat this poses to the public and even policemen.
“One of these firearms will shortly take away innocent lives if we do not act swiftly to recover them.
“The other firearms and assets that went missing before I took command, I have no idea but have tasked officers to furnish relevant information so that appropriate actions can follow,” Poma said.