Tough Apec security law ‘needed’

By HELEN TARAWA
APEC Minister Justin Tkatchenko says security measure being put in place for the leaders’ summit next month is a requirement by the 20 economies that will be visiting.
Tkatchenko said most of those economics had very strict security measures and required Papua New Guinea to put in place appropriate laws to protect their leaders while they were in the country for the leaders’ summit.
“If anyone tries to assault or harm any leader, or physically attack a leader then that would give rise for security personnel to act accordingly,” he said.
“Anyone who runs on the road to stop a motorcade, or shoot or throw anything at a motorcade will be arrested and charged and taken into custody.
“Anyone who tries to physically harm or purposely hurt a leader or any of the ministers will be arrested and charged under the Apec Security Act.
“It also gives way for close protection officers and security to counteract any aggression against their leader.”
Tkatchenko said the new law would be in force for 10 days next month to address any security breaches during the leaders’ summit.
“These are also the requirements that have been given to us by the different economies and different countries,” he said.
“They have very strict security measures that they put in place.
“They require us to make sure that we have the appropriate laws and measures in places to protect their leaders while they are here.
“Basically, if anyone tries to cause any inconvenience or any bodily harm or any act of violence against a leader or the motorcade or a delegation, then the security of that delegation has the right to protect their leader from such action by taking the required steps ensure that their leader is safe.”
The Apec Security Act will be in force from November 9-19 “within the period of the leaders’ summit”.