Illegal land dealings to be probed

THE Morobe lands and physical planning board will get to the bottom of illegal land dealings and uncertified buildings.
Provincial lands and physical planning minister and Menyamya MP Thomas Pelika told the new board to repossess all prime land and recreational parks acquired illegally.
Pelika said that buildings that did not meet certified buildings and architectural standards and businesses that encroached on residential areas would be investigated.
“We will get down to the bottom of it and verify how prime land and recreational parks were acquired in what manner following which procedures; similarly, shopping marts built and are operating in residential areas will be investigated.”
Pelika said the delay of nearly three years to appoint provincial lands and physical planning board had contributed to the abuse of the system and increase in illegal land dealings in Morobe.
The land board members were John Ngandang, Anthony Seeto, Kamong Mazzerin, Rev Yassam Aiwara, Janet Vanua, Alphias Yanikawo, Janethie Tine, Kapi Pudess and Morokoi Gaiwata.
The physical planning members include Kissu Lucas, Kingsford Kasen, George Gware, Charlie Sindang, Jonah Suvi, Nigel Merrick, Zoran Lee, Delilah Kelly, Dr. Andrew Bareng, Ken Zirong and Manfred Sako.
The Morobe police commander was also appointed as a member of the board in accordance with Section 20(a) of the Physical Planning Act.
Provincial police commander Alex N’Drasal was absent and would be sworn in later. Members will serve for three years.
Lands Minister Justin Tkatchenko had approved the new board membership.
Deputy Lands Secretary Tiri Wanga said the only way to get Morobe back on track was by empowering the lands and physical planning boards.
Wanga said that in any development activities, land was aptly surveyed, valuations made and allotments, and sections numbered, similar to buildings complying with regulations.