By Theckla Gunga-EMTV Port Moresby
Port Moresby is expecting a step up in security come Saturday the 24th of this month, as members of the Joint Services Task Force engage in security operations for the first APEC Senior Officials Meeting.
Representing head of APEC Security, ACP Naua Vanuavaru, said a motorcade dry run was conducted to test security preparations.
The motorcade involves the receiving of senior officials from Jackson’s International Airport, then escorting them to the meeting areas, and back to their accommodation venues.
Members of the Joint Services Task Force have been preparing for the last 12 months to ensure the safe movement of visiting leaders, from one venue to the next.
They now have three more days before the start of SOM1, which will run from 24th February to March 9th.
Australian Federal Police are spearheading the training and has already provided much of the fleet that will be used in this operation.
But PNG Traffic Police are leading these operations. It is divided into four specialised areas.
So far, the motorcade team has graduated 40 cyclists, including six women. It needs 40 more.
But the security of visiting leaders is not limited to safe movements from one venue to the next.
JSTF is engaging in providing the additional security both on sea and in the air.
However, the PNGDF plane, the Casa remains grounded as it is under-going maintenance.
Those in authority say it will take months before the plane can fly again.
