Mt Hagen police vehicle fleet beefed up

MOUNT Hagen police have taken ownership of 10 new vehicles worth K1.2 million, courtesy of local MP William Duma,
Six vehicles were presented to the different sections within the force yesterday during a parade at the Kiminga Police Barrack while four would be delivered next year.
Mr Duma, who is also Petroleum and Energy Minister, said the vehicles would enable the police to move around and enforce law and order.
He said there were many tribal fights, law and order problems in many parts of the province where police need to move around and deal with.
Mr Duma said he was happy to assist because despite lack of logistic support, policemen and women did a good job of maintaining law and order in the province.
He said in many other countries, police personnel were reluctant to patrol the street without being armed and in radio contact with base, stating that unarmed policemen and women on patrol indicated that they had the heart to serve the people.
Mr Duma said if there was enough money the Government would improve the police barracks, buy more vehicles and other equipment needed by the police force.
Assistant police commissioner and Highlands Divisional Commander Simon Kauba urged his police men and women to improve on their performances.
Mr Kauba said they were now highly paid compared to other public servants and there was no reason for complacency to set in.
He told his men that the vehicles must be put to good use for the purpose given for.