POLICE Commissioner, David Manning is sending a warning out to all candidates and supporters who are in possession of illegal firearms and are carrying it around during the 2022 National General Election.
Manning said police will be carrying out road checks and daily patrols around the country.
He said firearms have no place during election and those found in possession of any, will be charged under the amended Fire Arms Act of 2022.
“I can only advise all the candidates that firearms have no place during the election.
You have to seriously question the integrity and character of those candidates who are carrying around or are in possession of firearms.
It increases the level of threat or raises some sort of risk during this special period ,” said Manning.
The Police Commissioner said there are laws in the country and all must abide by them as citizens. He said RPNGC will not bow down to any intending candidate or a sitting MP.
“Police will not take it lightly and will enforce the law, if it either means sitting in jail awaiting bail during the election dates”, said Manning.
Manning made reference to a case of an intending candidate in Eastern Highlands whose supporters were stopped during a road block and found to be in possession of a high powered rifle.
He said police have completed the particular file report and the candidate and his supporters will be charged accordingly.
Meanwhile, the head of police force mentioned that police will be out in full strength to ensure the 2022 National General Elections is safe for all. Manning said despite special operations carried out by the force, all police personnel will be on duty to serve the public.
“Around five thousand police men and women will be engaged in the election exercise. Correctional Service and members of the PNG Defense Force are also collaborating with Police”, said Manning.
“Our aim is to ensure campaigns are conducted within laws and the voting population is provided a safe environment when casting their votes. Our operations will continue until the formation of the next Government, said Manning.
Everyone has the right to choose which leader they believe will represent them in Parliament and deliver services to their communities, said Manning.
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