2RPIR Commanding Officer Lt-Col. Vitata visits troops in Enga

Monday, 19 May 2025, 1:04 pm

PNGDF Personnel from 2RPIR serving in Enga. (NBC News)

The Commanding Officer of the Second Royal Pacific Island Regiment [2RPIR], of the Papua New Guinea Defence Force [PNGDF], Lieutenant Colonel Francis Vitata and his team, visited personnel who are in operations in the Hela and Enga Provinces, over the weekend.

This was an important event that was used to discuss challenges faced by the soldiers, as well as provide a brief overview about the progress on the ground.

Assurances were also given on some outstanding issues, which were to be looked into as a matter of urgency.

These Soldiers from the Charlie Company under the 2RPIR, and in operations in Enga Province were visited to boost their confidence, and as a show of support.

The company has been split into two, with one half spearheading the Operation GoldenValley in Porgera, while the others are in operation Waniyo in the other districts.

Officer Commanding Major James Kents, gave a brief update before the team proceeded to Porgera.

In a special meeting with the troops in Porgera, Commanding Officer Lt-Col. Vitata when speaking to his soldiers, appreciated their efforts and said that this was the main reason for his visit.

Commanding Officer 2RPIR, Lt-Col. Francis Vitata in Enga. (NBC Enga)

"The main reason for our visit is to rub shoulders with you and appreciate what you guys are doing on the ground," Lt-Col. Vitata said.

The soldiers were also assured that their outstanding issues will also be looked into, and he also praised them that their discipline during the time in the province is highly commendable.

Lt-Col. Vitata and his team are also expected to meet with other soldiers under Operation Wanyo, before heading back to their base in Moem Barracks in the East Sepik Province.