Prime Minister and Defence Minister Hon. James Marape has commended the Papua New Guinea Defence Force and the Royal Papua New Guinea Constabulary for swiftly restoring order following recent disturbances, while assuring the nation that a thorough and transparent investigation process is now underway.
Prime Minister Marape said the prompt response by security forces ensured that the situation was contained and did not escalate further.
“I want to commend the Defence Force for restoring order and allowing due process to take its course,” the Prime Minister said. “Equally, I thank Police Commissioner David Manning and his NCD command for stepping up and ensuring the situation remained localised and under control.”
He confirmed that investigations into the matter have commenced and will run over the next two weeks, with authorities gathering information from all relevant parties, including recruits.
“The investigation is now in progress, and we will allow it to run its full course. We will ascertain from the recruits themselves the processes that were followed. If there have been instances where individuals entered through illegitimate means, this will be established through proper investigation,” he said.
Prime Minister Marape emphasised that the Government will not pre-empt the outcome of the investigation, reiterating that all actions will be guided strictly by established laws, procedures, and institutional rulebooks.
“As Prime Minister and Defence Minister, I want to make it clear that we will not bend or go outside the processes. The rulebooks for Defence Force recruitment, conduct, and administration are very clear, and we will follow them as prescribed by law,” he said. “Those found to have acted outside the law will face appropriate penalties.”
The Prime Minister also issued a strong assurance to whistleblowers within the Defence Force and the broader community, encouraging them to come forward with information.
“I appeal to all members of the Defence Force, especially whistleblowers, to submit any relevant information. If you are reporting wrongdoing that has genuinely occurred, you will not be penalised. I give that assurance,” he stated.
He added that any decisions regarding personnel movements or disciplinary action would only be made after the investigation is completed and based on verified findings.
“We cannot act without concrete information. All decisions will be subject to the outcome of the investigation currently underway,” he said.
Prime Minister Marape further acknowledged the responsible conduct of citizens during the incident, noting a growing sense of discipline and cooperation in the community.
“I also want to thank our citizens in Port Moresby. In the past, incidents like this could easily escalate, but I have observed a more measured and responsible response from our people, especially as we mark our 50th anniversary,” he said.
“While isolated issues may still arise from time to time, generally our citizens have responded positively to leadership and have conducted themselves in an orderly manner. This is encouraging for our country.”
The Prime Minister reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to upholding discipline, transparency, and the rule of law across all state institutions.
“We are committed to ensuring that our Defence Force and Police operate with integrity, professionalism, and full adherence to the law. The processes are in motion, and we will keep the country informed as the investigation progresses,” he said.