Police station commanders in court over murder

Suspended Yangoru Police Station commander Inspector Kevin Hembehoie and Tangori Rural Station commander Senior Constable Moses Pilai outside the Jomba Police Station, about to get into the police van to make their way to the Madang District Court. – Picture supplied

TWO police officers charged with murder faced the Madang District Court last week.
Director crimes acting Chief Superintendent Joel Simatab told The National that Yangoru Police Station commander Insp Kevin Hembehoie and Tangori Rural Police Station commander Senior Constable Moses Pilai remained in police custody.
Police continued to investigate into the allegations of murder against the two in Yangoru-Saussia, East Sepik.
Simatab confirmed that police had yet to recover police-issued firearms both men were said to have had in their possession.
“A forensic team have gone to Yangoru and are speaking with witnesses, about 20 witnesses have been identified,” he said.
“It was found that there were other cases of arson and causing grievous bodily harm that both men had been alleged to have done.”
“Many witnesses came forward with their own stories.
“Both men have been served their suspensions.
“Other auxiliary officers who have been identified are now in hiding.
“I am aware that certain politicians are politicising this case but it is a normal police investigation where someone has died after detention in a police station.
“The evidence is sufficient and credible.”
Simatab said police were continuing their investigations.