PNGDF establishes panel for own cases

 The PNG Defence Force can hold its own court cases using a panel of judges established in the force. 

The panel comprises three judges headed by Justice Panuel Mogish and nine lawyers. 

The military court will conduct trials and hear cases on legal matters concerning defence force matters in the country. 

Mogish is assisted by Justice Allan David, Justice John Kawi and the judges’ associate Reuben Kitau. 

The team will conduct hearings at Defence Force bases in Igam Barracks in Lae, Moem Barracks in Wewak and Tarangau Naval Base in Manus.

Mogish will hear cases in the Southern region while David will deal with cases in Igam and the Highlands region. 

Kawi will deal with Moem and the Islands region. 

“It is a significant milestone as far as judiciary system is concerned for the Papua New Guinea Defence Force,” Mogish said.

“Though it is expensive exercise for PNGDF to fund the trips to the various bases, the judges will save the cost by hearing two cases at one time for military and civilian while doing their national court circuit. 

“Since this appointment of military judges, it will be ensured that any defence matters will be the key priority.”

A gazette was issued by Mogish at the official opening of the military court last week confirming him as the defence force judge and establishing the Murray Barracks headquarters for its sittings.