Sir Michael clears air on Sunset Merona

 The Operation Sunset Merona is at the request of the people of West Sepik through their provincial administration, according to Prime Minister Sir Michael Somare.

Sir Michael in a statement said the rationale behind Operation Sunset Merona was to assist the provincial authorities address the different security issues at the PNG-Indonesia border.

Led by the Royal PNG Constabulary and assisted by the PNG Defence Force, this whole-of-government approach operation involves line agencies such as the Correctional Service, Customs, Immigration, Foreign Affairs and the Provincial Affairs departments.

“Respective agencies have also been directed to look at medium to long term strategies for the management of both our land and maritime borders.

“This combined security operation is aimed at reinforcing and maintaining State authority at this very strategic location and furthermore to renew confidence in our border systems and procedures,” Sir Michael said.

He said the National Executive Council endorsed this security exercise last month.

Sir Michael said the Department of Prime Minister and National Executive Council through the National Security Advisory Committee was coordinating this whole of government border security operation which would run for six weeks.