State recruits top cop

 THE Government has appointed Alan Scott, the former head of the Australian Federal Police contingent in PNG, as a deputy Police Commissioner in charge of reform, training and APEC.

Prime Minister Peter O’Neill said Scott had “international experience” and the respect of local police officers.

“As the former Assistant Commissioner from the Australian Federal Police Programme in PNG, he brings an international perspective to the reforms that we need in our police force, and the training required to reach the next level,” O’Neill said in a statement.

“Alan Scott will further take on the role of coordinating safety and security for APEC preparations.”

“The joint task force on APEC security is being formed that will draw in elements from security agencies, and work directly with our foreign security partners.”

He said Scott’s appointment was a “demonstration of the functionality of bringing foreign advisers into the Government under the direct authority of the Government”.

He said Scott would work in the chain of command as an officer of the PNG police force.

 O’Neill also welcomed the appointment of  Deputy Commissioners Jim Andrews (Operations) and Raphael Huafolo (Administration).

“We are drawing on the experience and capabilities of deputy commissioners Andrews and Huafolo to enhance stability and discipline,” he said.