NCD leads with number of cops arrested, charged criminally

By SYLVESTER WEMURU
THE National Capital District leads the provincial tally of most policemen and women arrested and charged criminally by the internal investigation unit (IIU) Police.
Internal Affairs Directorate director Chief Supt Robert Ali said according to the tally, more than 20 personnel from NCD had been arrested and charged last year.
East Sepik is next – at least 10, Madang five, Central three and Northern two.
His figures come from IIU in Port Moresby but there may be additional numbers from provinces, he said. Chief Supt Ali said figures were still increasing and that underscored the fact that police had lost their code of ethics.
He said according to the crimes police committed, most were for arson – 169 .
Chief Supt Ali said the charges represented 169 properties being set on fire by police. He said abuse of office was also high – 26 cases.
“A policeman or woman is charged with abuse of office criminally when he or she uses police issued properties such as uniform, vehicle or firearm to commit any offence against another person. It is unbecoming of police officers misusing these properties.”
Chief Supt Ali said armed robbery and stealing were two offences that most of the arrested personnel had committed.
He said police officers who were charged criminally, were also dealt with administratively and served serious disciplinary charges.