The Prime Minister, Peter O’Neill, today thanked the Papua New Guinea Police Force for the excellent work it has achieved on behalf of the nation in the lead up to tomorrow’s election.
Mr O’Neill also paid tribute to the many police officers for the part they have played in looking after him during his almost non-stop travels across the nation during the pre-election period.
“I also want to personally thank every one of the police officers throughout the country that has played a role in helping to ensure this election is conducted as a fair and violence free process,” Mr O’Neill said.
The Prime Minister has reiterated his pledge to review the Papua New Guinea Police Force when he is re-elected to office, promising to allocate K10 million towards the process.
This review, he said, would constitute an “across the board” examination of the overall structure of the police force – from equipment currently being used and the powers police officers have to ensure people’s safety, right through to creating new laws to further support police officers in their day-to-day roles.
“When I am returned as Prime Minister, I want to crack down on violence within our communities. I want to reduce the number of road incidents due to speeding and drink driving and I want to see our children safe on the streets,” Mr O’Neill said.
“I will work with the various departments to look at how we can do this quickly and effectively.
The Prime Minister said that one of the first things he wanted to achieve would be the introduction of new police vehicles that are highly recognised and armed with the latest police enforcement equipment and technology.
“I am also going to introduce a special unit that will work with schools to educate our children about the law and what our police department does, to reassurethem that the police are there to protect them, their families and keep ourcommunities safe,” he said.
“It is via these programs that I will change the way we as a nation view our Police Force.“My intention is that the Papua New Guinea Police Force will become one of the most desirable places to work and our younger generation, both male and female, will aspire to become police officers and be proud to wear the uniform.
“But first things first – I need to review the Police Force and make the necessary changes to get it right.
“And I promise you this, it will happen and to make sure it does, I will be allocating K10 million to help implement these changes and commence the process of really starting to make a difference.”