Commissioner confirms seized round is military weapon

Police have confirmed that an artillery round seized in Port Moresby on October 29 is a 130mm military projectile.

Police Commissioner David Manning said the projectile had been safely extracted and secured, while investigations into its discovery continue.

He said the round was examined by the RPNGC Bomb Unit and PNG Defence Force Explosive Ordnance Disposal personnel, including through X-ray examinations to confirm its structure.

Commissioner Manning said the discovery was a serious matter and warned the public against speculation that could interfere with the investigation.

He said the investigation would take its course and would not be influenced by public commentary or social media speculation.

“Investigations are conducted by Police, not through social media posts,” he said.

He added that the ordnance had been identified, rendered safe and placed in a secure facility.

Commissioner Manning said investigators were pursuing all avenues of inquiry, with further information to be released at an appropriate time.