Police to investigate threats on Hiri-Koiari MP

Police have launched an investigation into alleged threats to the Member for Hiri Koiari, Keith Iduhu.

Police Commissioner David Manning said he was aware the member filed a complaint at the weekend, and he’s directed police to look into the allegations.

Commissioner Manning told NBC News the serious threats made via the online messaging service whatsapp, involve the life of a national leader and will not be treated lightly.

“Anyone who has a complaint, in this case threats to them and their family, we need to make sure that we investigate that as soon as possible,” Commissioner Manning said.

“It’s a threat made against a member of the national parliament. Whether it’s the opposition or government, they have the mandate of the respective constituents to represent them in parliament.

“The alleged victim is a member of the National Parliament so we’re not taking that lightly, but I can confirm that I did receive it and I have directed actions to be taken.”

The first-term parliamentarian came out publicly on social media with a screenshot of threats from an unknown person. They also threatened his family.

Mr Iduhu said as an elected member of parliament he had the right to speak out against the government and was also open to criticisms.

But, he said the recent threats forced him to lodge a formal complaint with the office of the police commissioner and the cybercrime unit for investigation and prosecution.

Mr Iduhu is the second opposition member to be threatened. East Sepik Governor Allan Baird reported similar threats last month after the Opposition nominated him to the Prime Minister’s post.

Meanwhile, Prime Minister James Marape condemned the threats directed to Mr Iduhu and ordered a thorough police investigation.