Reduce crime rate: Manning

CRIME and corruption should be reduced significantly in support of the Government’s intention to “take back PNG,” says acting deputy commissioner of Police operations David Manning.
“That’s exactly what the police management intends to achieve,” Manning said in a statement.
He said the constabulary would now adopt a result-driven approach where every member of the police was expected to arrest, charge and successfully convict offenders who breached the law.
Manning said the basic fundamental roles and responsibilities of a police officer was to arrest, charge, prosecute and convict felons.
But, this had not been happening frequently as it should because of many attributing factors.
He said the cultural practice of accepting compensation as a form of restitution for serious crimes and bribes offered to police, among many others, had for far too long allowed law breakers to roam freely in society.
“The performance of every police officer will now come under the radar of the RPNGC (Royal PNG Constabulary) executive management.
“The arrest rate must increase and the prosecution and conviction rates must also increase as well if we are serious about tackling crime and making this nation safer and conducive for business investment and growth to thrive and prosper.”
Manning said there was no room in the organisation for corrupt police officers.
“We will reshape and sharpen up on discipline in the constabulary and demand for members to perform up to expectations.
“All members of the constabulary must perform their duties without fear, malice or ill-will and within the confines of ethics and integrity.
“The police management and responsible officers and NCOs will ensure all cases are properly investigated with a degree of proficiency, care and impartiality,” he said.