By Bridgette Komatep – EM TV, Port Moresby
The National Executive Council has approved the funding of over K7 million to continue the Porgera joint security callout operations by members of the disciplined forces.
Prime Minister Peter O’Neill said it was important for cabinet to approve the funds for the operations because any withdrawal of the joint forces would only provoke the rise of criminal activities.
The Special Forces were called in to reduce crime and problems related to the use and consumption of alcohol, and most importantly to deter illegal mining in the Porgera Special Mining Lease areas.
The influx of people- the local population of 4,000 has increased to 60,000.
While there is more to be done, Mr O’Neill says lawlessness has been contained and normalcy restored since the Operation Short Stop 2014 began in April this year.
Prime Minister Peter O’Neill said cabinet endorsed the funding for the joint security operations to fully implement the medium and long-term strategies and to address the illegal mining and breakdown of law & order in Pogera Gold Mine town of Enga Province.
He said the National Government call-out to the Pogera Gold Mine is a cabinet endorsed joint operation to address criminal activities in and around the mining township.
Mr O’Neill said Pogera Joint Venture has been supportive towards these operations carried out by the members of the police and defense force.
He said cabinet has further directed the Department of Treasury to immediately release a funding of K7, 588,400.00 to ensure the operations are continued.
