Retired Major general calls for urgent intervention into law-and-order concerns

A former Commander of the PNG Defence Force has raised serious concerns about the law-and-order situation in the country, warning that it is eroding public confidence.

Retired Major general Jerry Singirok says the growing violence calls for urgent government intervention.

The increasing incidents of killings in settlements, ethnic clashes, armed robberies and other criminal activities in Port Moresby and other parts of the country have raised serious concerns about the effectiveness of the nation’s security and law enforcement agencies.

Retired Major general Jerry Singirok says the worsening security situation is not simply a law-and-order issue.

He describes it as a national development, economic and governance challenge.

"This has put a lot of strain on our government agencies but that doesn't give us as a responsible government an agency's excuse to allow escalation of and the deterioration of social conditions.

"I came out with my concern as former commander and a leader of this country to highlight this aspect of the challenges that we're facing. We need leaders at all levels. We need government departments that measure up to the expectation to fulfill their roles and duties." Singirok said.

Singirok says no nation can attract investment, create employment opportunities and improve living standard, when public safety is compromised.

The former Commander stressed that bold leadership, institutional competency and strong political will are essential to restoring public confidence and ensuring that the rule of law prevails.

"I have called on the government to take responsible actions; to assist in funding, technical advice, leadership and put our security forces under scrutiny so that they perform." Singirok said.