Investigations have no political influence: Manning

THERE is no political influence in the investigations by the special police forensic criminal investigation team, says Police Commissioner David Manning.
He said any investigation done by the team was “just another case to investigate”.
“Whether there are political connotations or whether or not the offenders have political connections, that is something that has not formed the basis of this investigation,” he said.
“The constabulary does not look at who is politically affiliated.
“For us to determine whether we conduct an investigation, ours is the business of detecting crime and investigating.”
Police Minister William Onglo said: “When we get a lot of political interference, you get investigations falling apart.
“I chose to stay away from operational matters, anything on operations I leave that to the police commissioner.
“I am not privy to details of the investigations, and a statement is always released from the Police Commissioner’s Office.”
Last week, former PNG Power (PPL) managing director Carolyn Blacklock was interviewed and charged.
Comm Manning also contacted former PPL chairman Peter Nupiri and requested that he make himself available for interview regarding charges laid against Blacklock.
Comm Manning’s request followed Nupiri’s press statement refuting the allegation that on Aug 2018, he did conspire with Blacklock to fabricate her contract of employment, giving effect to her being paid K1.7 million in backpay between Dec 2017 and Aug 2019.
“I contacted Nupiri and requested he kindly make himself available for an interview and to assist police by providing copies of official board resolutions to clear his name,” Comm Manning said.
“Unfortunately, Nupiri has not responded. The production of the official board minutes by Nupiri would assist police to consider whether to proceed with further investigations. Until Nupiri presents himself to police and produces evidence police will continue to rely on the evidence on file.”