by Vasinatta Yama-EM TV, Port Moresby
Deputy Police Commissioner Administration, Awan Sete, announced today that police will be using non-lethal weapons during the Pacific Games operations.
The decision came after much public criticisms over the handling and using of weapons by police.
It is confirmed that 2,500 police men and women will provide security at the 2015 Pacific Games.
A fraction of the PNG Defence Force and Correctional Service personnel will also assist the police.
Chief of Administration, Awan Sete, said the Royal Papua New Guinea Constabulary have been receiving public criticisms over the use of firearms.
Police will be issued with non-lethal weapons for crowd controlling only. Like the pan belt, baton, tear gas, spray and others.
It was the initiative of the Games Committee to buy the weapons and other highly sophisticated equipment and surveillance technology, which will be used during the Games. These assets will be maintained and redeployed in other major security operations like the 2017 National Elections and the 2018 APEC meeting.
RPNGC will also start a public relations exercise which will involve the use of different media outlets to encourage people to embrace the games, and make it a fun-filled event for everyone to enjoy. The Constabulary is aiming to produce good public relations by working closely with communities.
They are expecting another K28 million from the government for accommodation, allowances and other security activities.
Meanwhile, the Papua New Guinean government has released K26 million of funding for the mobilisation of resources in preparation for the games in July.
Much of the funding was used for logistics, uniforms, operational hardware and equipment for police surveillance and security.
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