Forces must stay united

 A JUDGE has urged members of the three disciplined forces to maintain discipline and work in unity with the court system to promote peace and harmony in communities.

Speaking at the opening of the Legal Year in Wewak, East Sepik, on Monday, Justice Nicholas Kirriwom praised the police, army and the Correctional Service officers for putting on a colourful parade.

“The police and Correctional Service have been allies of the court system well before independence. Your commitment today reminds us of that unity. 

“On the other hand, our Constitution allows for army call-out when there is a need in civic duties such as natural disasters, state of emergencies and many others. “This makes the three forces united and will work together with the court system to expedite cases.”

He cautioned police officers to comply with the law when effecting bench warrants.

He discouraged clashes between the three forces, saying they should take up any issues with the appropriate institutions. “The court is here for you all. I call on everyone to bring their conflicts to the court.

“I believe when we start using the court system, there’ll be less people in the police cells. You should be grateful because you have the national court in your province.”