PPC reveals struggles faced by Gulf cops

 GULF police have dealt with 16 cases of crime reported in January – after a peaceful Christmas and New Year celebration.

Provincial police commander Silas Wayagure told The National from Kerema that the cases related to wilful and attempted murder, grievous bodily harm, unlawful wounding, sexual penetration, carnal knowledge, abduction of minors, break-in and entering, conspiracy to commit fraud, presenting of invalid cheques, false pretence, misappropriation of funds and abuse of office.

“From these 16 reported cases, we were able to arrest six. Some suspects have ran away making our work even more difficult given the geographical location of the province,” he said.

Wayagure said they laid charges on those who had been arrested. Most were out on bail, awaiting their court appearance.

He said the consumption of marijuana and home brew contributed a lot to the crimes.

“I believe many cases are not reported to us because we are down on manpower,” Wayagure said.

“Having only 18 police officers in Kerema town, with less logistical supplies like transport and fuel, is challenging for us to ensure that these cases are looked at or made arrest to those pending cases.”