Police to relook at dismissed charges

POLICE will relook at the charges recently dismissed by the court against two foreigners allegedly involved in the K160 million cocaine bust, says Police Commissioner David Manning.
The District Court in Waigani struck out the charges against Italian yacht owner Carlo D’Attanasio and Australia aircraft pilot David Cutmore last Thursday.
The Customs Act charges against three locals Morgan Mogu, Dominic Terupo and Shane Dikana will be heard on Thursday before a different magistrate.
On Oct 8, the Waigani court dismissed the charges under the Customs Act and National Pandemic Act because procedural matters had not been followed.
The court advised police that if they obtained the correct authorisation, they were free to charge the two men again under the legislations.
The five accused are expected to appear together in the District Court on money laundering charges.
Manning said it was not the end of the matter.
“A series of criminal acts were allegedly committed in PNG,” he said.
“We will vigorously prosecute those accused in PNG under our laws.
“Some of the charges are new for PNG and we take this opportunity to adjust to the requirements.
“It also highlights the need for legislative reform for drug offences committed in PNG.”