Madang PPC starts discipline drive with sector parades

Madang's Provincial Police Commander, Acting Superintendent Robert Baim, has begun the sector parades for his command in a bid to instill discipline amongst his policemen and policewomen.

The first parade was held yesterday for the Sector Patrol Unit [SRU], formerly the Task Force Unit.

Baim told the SRU members during the parade that they are the front-line officers in combating volatile situations and reminded them that they must execute their duties with utmost professionalism at all times.

" My office continues to receive complaints from the public regarding the behaviors of some of you, and that must change," he said.

PPC Baim told the unit supervisors and non-commissioned officers [NCOs] to take command and control of their unit members, as it is the key to maintaining discipline and respect amongst themselves.

He said there had been many public critics and complaints against rogue behaviors by officers within the SRU, further warning them that nothing of such in the future will be overlooked but be addressed accordingly.

"The negative attitudes by rogue officers do not reflect professionalism in the police force but only destroys the collective efforts of good and hard-working officers who diligently carry out their policing duties. You must act responsibly when executing your duties to protect lives and properties and maintain law and order," Baim stressed.

Some key issues PPC Baim raised at the discipline parade include ignorance of directives given, misuse of police vehicles, consuming alcohol whilst on duty, and general misconduct by members within the unit. He said it is time for this command to change for the better.

He reminded them that as first respondents to law and order issues, they play a vital role in shaping the people's perceptions of policing in Madang, therefore; their conduct must always be of high standard.

The other sections will also be paraded in the coming weeks and months.

Meanwhile, Section Inspection is spelt out in the Constabulary Standing Orders for all PPCs to inspect all section & rural stations annually, and the Sector Patrol Unit is no exception.