WNB police begin clean-up

WEST New Britain police have begun an operation to address the surge in lawlessness in the province, with MPs also supporting investigations into the 16 inmates shot dead while trying to escape on Sunday.
New Guinea Islands police commander, assistant commissioner of police Perou N’dranou launched Operation Tango yesterday, warning police officers to be “disciplined, caring and productive to change West New Britain during the operation”.
“Let us change the narrative,” he said.
“We need to treat everyone correctly and fairly because we will need their support during this operation.
“I will not hesitate to deal with any officer who deviates from police practices during this operation.”
He added that the people’s expectation of police work and standards was “very high”.
“Not everyone is a criminal.
“Ninety per cent of the people need us. Its only the other 10 per cent that we need to be tough on.”
On Sunday, 16 of the 24 inmate who broke out of the Lakiemata Prison were shot dead. One was injured and admitted in hospital, while seven are on the run.
Governor Sasindran Muthuvel and Kandrian-Gloucester MP Joseph Lelang are supporting the police and the Correctional Services (CS) in their investigation of the death of the 16 inmates.
Muthuvel said establishing the facts surrounding the incident was vital.
“I call on the police and CS to focus their efforts on investigating the matter and carry out a coronial inquest into the deaths of the 16 individuals,” he said.
“Existing issues like manpower, funding, and logistics prevent quick action from our security forces.
“We cannot continue to put up with inadequate support from the National Government.”
Lelang said it was a serious matter that needed a serious investigation.
“Allegations have now surfaced accusing CS officers of brutality and cold-blooded murder,” Lelang said.
“Escapees are supposed to be captured and returned to prisons, not killed.”