Police firearm dropped by a police officer returned in Hela Province

A police issued firearm could fetch thousands of Kina on the black market was returned voluntarily by a young man in Hela Province.   

Acting Assistant Commissioner Police [ACP] Western End, Joseph Tondop praised Harry Irape from the Topan clan of Hides for a strong sense of civic duty and respect of state property.

He assured an internal investigation will take place for disciplinary action against the police officer, who under the influence of alcohol dropped the high-powered weapon.   

Harry Irape stumbled upon the weapon by luck last Sunday, around 11pm.

When returning the weapon on Tuesday, he said the drunk officer opened both doors of the vehicle and when speeding off, the firearm slipped and dropped out the vehicle door.

Police and military personnel are on duty in the area because of the LNG project.

ACP Tondop reminded law enforcement officers of the importance of accountability and responsibility.

He stressed that getting drunk and losing a high-powered weapon in a volatile province is unforgivable and a serious breach of standing orders.