Lack of logistics for border operations addressed: Mirisim

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By JEFFREY ELAPA
Lack of logistical support for the PNG Defence Force along the Indonesia-PNG border is now being addressed, Defence Minister Solan Mirisim says.
He said more than K800,000 had been spent on purchasing boats and vehicles to support work along the border.
He said two vehicles were delivered to Vanimo and two boats to Green River patrol post.
Mirisim said Tomolbil in Telefomin district would also start this year.
He said Kotchio patrol post in Bewani, Vanimo and Wutung were established bases with soldiers patrolling the area.
Mirisim said the new patrol post bases in Green River and Tombilbil would complete the border in the West Sepik side of the border.
He said another two vehicles were given to Kiunga forward base for soldiers to use on the Western side of the border.
Mirisim said two banana boats were purchased for Bula in Western to patrol along the border.
He said so far, 10 boats and six vehicles had been purchased for border operations.
Mirisim said Waim patrol post in Western would receive a compete upgrade of facilities.
He said the border had been neglected for a long time by successive governments, resulting in many illegal activities taking place.
Mirisim said gun smuggling, drug trade, fishing and hunting, and movement of people would be closely monitored with improved assistance to PNGDF.
“This is the first time the Government is looking at setting up new patrol posts and military bases along the border,” he said.
“Assistance with logistics such as boats and vehicles will help the solder in their duties.”