More detainees flee from custody

 YET more detainees have escaped from custody, this time eight from the Kokopo Police Station cells in East New Britain, amid growing concern about negligent officers in the police and prison service.

There is concern about community safety as most of the escapees are facing serious charges such as murder, rape and other violent offences.

Provincial police commander Supt Anthony Wagambie Jnr said that the suspects escaped last Sunday (June 15) at around 11am.

He has directed the Kokopo commander to conduct investigations into the escape after initial findings revealed that it was the result of negligence by the officer on duty.

“The PSC will do a proper investigation and from there we will suspend and deal with officers responsible,” Wagambie said.

Last week, seven detainees fled from the Tari Police Station cells in Hela.

Hela provincial commander Mark Yangen said two were caught midweek but there was  concern about the number of breakouts in Tari.

Correctional Services Acting Commissioner Michael Waipo said the 35 who made a dash for freedom from the Barawagi facilities in Chimbu last Sunday was the result of officer negligence.

He reported several similar escapes from CS facilities such as Biru in Northern and Bui-lebi in Southern Highlands recently and said people responsible would be dealt with severely.