PM condemns ‘use of force, breaking law’ during fight

PRIME Minister James Marape has condemned “the use of force and breaking of the law” following a clash between policemen and soldiers in Port Moresby on Monday.
He summoned police Commissioner David Manning and Defence Force Commander Maj-Gen Gilbert Toropo yesterday morning to provide an explanation on the incident.
“I am appalled that members of our two disciplined forces resorted to the use of force and breaking of law to resolve a law and order issue,” Marape said in a statement.
“Police and soldiers are supposed to be the most disciplined of people.
“It is very disappointing to see such breakdowns happening and continuing.”
Currently in charge of both forces as defence minister, Marape directed soldiers involved in the altercation “to immediately withdraw to your barracks” and for the commander and commanding officers to immediately restore order at Taurama Barracks.
He said most soldiers were hardworking and many times put their bodies on the line.
“Do not allow the ill-discipline of a few and the ill-response of police allow a resolvable situation get out of hand,” he said.
Marape wants a joint police and military investigation into the matter.
He said the Government never tolerated that behaviour and “will not entertain it in any way”.
“Matters of genuine concern have to be handled lawfully. This is the only way,” he said.