Interview suspended: Manning

POLICE Commissioner David Manning has confirmed that an interview conducted with the National Fraud Directorate director Det Chief Supt Matthew Damaru a fortnight ago was suspended on his orders.
Comm Manning said the interview was suspended pending ongoing investigations into alleged cases involving the senior officer.
However, Comm Manning was not forthcoming on the case in which Det Chief Supt Damaru was questioned for.
When asked by The National on why he was brought to the Boroko Police Station, Chief Supt Damaru said he was not charged and did not know what the allegations against him were.
Comm Manning, however, said while many investigations were undertaken by the constabulary, many procedures and actions were taking place without proper approvals and a vetting process.
“A lot of things happen, circumstances occur within the constabulary, a lot of things went under the radar, a lot of interviews that were supposed to be carried out were not carried out,” he said.
“I have issued instructions that the constabulary should remain neutral and in any investigation, if there is no neutrality, the case should be put on hold until the situation resolves itself or it goes through a vetting process.
“After the vetting process, then investigations can happen.”
The vetting process within the constabulary is a process that ensures cases are properly managed and allows for transparency, accountability and helps prevent malicious prosecution.
“Unsanctioned investigations done without the supervision of the police hierarchy provides an opportunity for corrupt practices to take place,” Comm Manning said.