Government aims to reach 10,000 police personnel by 2030

The government is looking forward to increasing the number of police officers to 10,000 by 2030.

This is to achieve a population to police ratio that is suitable for the country, which has a population between 12 to 13 million.

Deputy Prime Minister James Rosso, during the Pass out parade of 226 probationary police personnel yesterday, highlighted that, according to the United Nations recommendations, around 26,000 police personnel nationwide will be sufficient for effective policing.

"Currently, we have only about 5,000 police officers, which is significantly below the required level. This imbalance highlights the inability to adequately address law and order issues and to provide effective policing across all provinces.

"To meet the recommended standard, we need an additional 20,000 officers.

"The first phase of recruitment aims to bring the force to 10,000 personnel by 2030. This has been clearly communicated to the Commissioner, the Minister for Police, and the leadership of the Royal Papua New Guinea Constabulary.

"This expansion is not accidental. It is a deliberate response to persistent law and order challenges in Papua New Guinea. The government, together with its strategic partners, is committed to rebuilding, reforming, and modernizing the police force," Rosso said.

The deputy prime minister said that by mid-June, another 300 recruits will start training.

Rosso said that by the third quarter of this year, another intake of around 300 recruits is expected, as the police force works to double the training capacity.

"Our goal is clear:10,000 officers by 2030 and 26,000 officers within the next decade.

"This is essential to ensure the presence of law and order in every district. Each district should have at least 10 police officers, an NCO [Non-Commissioned Officer], and a district magistrate to properly serve the people.

"Currently, many stations and districts lack the manpower needed to operate effectively. This is why we speak of the circle of justice, a concept our government is pursuing in partnership with key allies, especially Australia," Rosso added.

Meanwhile, Rosso thanked the Australian Government for its continued support and partnership in strengthening the RPNGC and improving the law and justice sector across Papua New Guinea.