Australian police officer to arrive tomorrow

By MATTHEW VARI

Sunday, November 3, 2013 (Sunday Chronicle, PNG)

THE first batch of 30 Australian Federal Police (AFP) Officers are set to arrive tomorrow under the Papua New Guinea and Australia Policing Partnership program, which was announced by Assistant Commissioner for Police Administration, Awan Sete last week at the Metropolitan Commanders Monthly Parade, held in Port Moresby last week.

Supported by the PNG Government, the mission will assist the Royal PNG Constabulary (RPNGC) in the areas of frontline policing, prosecutions, fraud investigations and many other important core functions within the constabulary.

They will be deployed in NCD and Lae initially to work side by side with the RPNGC to assist in maintaining law and order.

Deputy Commissioner Sete, urged officers from the NCD command to work in partnership with the AFP officers for the common goal maintaining the law.

“You will take the lead in this partnership program as we aspire to work together in the spirit of cooperation and partnership.”

“The Australians are coming to work side by side as partners in the fight against crime and therefore it is important for us to share our knowledge and skills and also learn from what they can offer.”

“The deployment of Australian Police personnel in PNG would undoubtedly attract wider media coverage internationally therefore it is critically important for you to behave professionally while executing you duties,” he reminded his officers.”

He assured his officers that the RPNGC management would closely oversee the development of the program to provide assistance to help tackle the challenges ahead.

Urging them to acquaint yourselves with the Australians and work together as partners so that they could all serve the interest of the people, the government, and all stakeholders in the country.

“I am confident that this partnership will change the work environment and culture of policing in PNG.”