SI deployment effective, says police boss

THE Royal Papua New Guinea Constabulary’s (RPNGC) help in the Solomon Islands general election has proved effective in supporting the democratic process and strengthening relations between the two countries, says police commissioner David Manning.
In total, 106 PNG police personnel are engaged with the Royal Solomon Islands Police Force through the election calendar.
Manning said the show of strength by PNG police has been reassuring for the people of the Solomon Islands who want free, fair and safe elections.
“Our policemen and women in the Solomon Islands are making PNG proud in their professional conduct and dedication to helping our closest Melanesian neighbour,” he said.
“PNG personnel continue to be effective in helping the Solomon Islands police maintain law and order through the voting and now the counting stages of the elections.
“The RPNGC has significant experience in creating a safe and secure environment for elections to take place, and have been well prepared in the event that the security environment requires police intervention.
“Fortunately, there has been no need for major interventions during what has been a largely peaceful election to date.
“To date, RPNGC members have only had to intervene and support their Solomon Islands counterparts with a small number matters across provincial areas. These minor matters were tended to quickly and professionally by our members, ensuring that potential security issues were mitigated early and effectively.”
Manning highlighted additional benefits being delivered by the RPNGC deployment through medical support.
“In a first for regional security cooperation, deployed RPNGC members are accompanied by a PNG doctor. In addition to providing treatment for deployed RPNGC members, the police doctor is delivering support to communities there,” he said.