Security talks underway for U20 World Cup

AS preparations for the Women’s Under 20 soccer World Cup in November continue, security arrangements are also being discussed by stakeholders.
A joint committee has been created comprising the PNG Defence Force, PNG Customs, National Airport Corporation, Department of Transport, the National Maritime and Safety Authority, National Security Advisory Council, PNG Fire Service and NCDC, with the Royal PNG Constabulary as the lead agency for the public safety and security plan.
The expectations of Fifa have been shared with the stakeholders and the committee will be working to ensure the requirements are met.
Local organising committee chief executive officer Seamus Marten said preparation was going according to schedule.
He said security planning was also an important area for Fifa because there would be visiting guests, including 16 international teams, coming into the country for the event.
“The security plan is not only to ensure the safety of the participating teams but also the security of the fans, international media and visiting guests that will be in Port Moresby during the three-week tournament,” Marten said.
“We want the fans and the people who come to Port Moresby to enjoy a world class event in a safe and secure environment.”
The chairman of the committee, RPNGC director community policing Supt John Kolopen said the operations order had been drafted and included contributions by the other stakeholders.
The operational order will have to be endorsed by the police commissioner and then the National Executive Council depending on the details of the operation.
The operational order will include Fifa requirements which call for 60 per cent of the security personnel to be female.
LOC security manager Hetahu Lohia said an expression of interest for the use of private security firms would be published next week for private security firms to apply.
The announcement of the successful applicants by private security firms will be made at the end of August.
The successful security firms will provide security at the match venues, training venues and the accommodation sites during the games and after games.