Eighty New Police Officers in Papua New Guinea Receive Specialist Training to Combat Financial Fraud and Corruption
The Royal Papua New Guinea Constabulary (RPNGC) is strengthening its efforts against financial crimes in the country. By the end of the year, approximately 80 officers will have undergone specialist investigation and prosecution training in fraud and corruption cases.
RPNGC Increases Capacity to Tackle Financial Crimes
The Fraud and Anti-Corruption Directorate of the RPNGC is spearheading the Fraud Investigations and Prosecutions course nationwide. Recently, 28 officers from the New Guinea Islands Region completed their training in Kokopo, East New Britain.
“This training equips these officers with the necessary skills to tackle intricate fraud cases in a unified manner.”
- Chief Sergeant Kila Guma, Course Instructor
Empowering More Police Officers
The Fraud Investigations and Prosecutions course is the second of its kind. Previously, 29 officers from the Southern Region received this training in Port Moresby. The sessions encompass practical issues and interactive content on various topics:
- Investigation planning and management
- Offense elements and evidence preparation
- Latest trends and techniques in fraud investigations and prosecutions
- Money laundering and proceeds of crime legislation
Officers Share Their Experiences
Senior Constable Tina Nikints, a fraud investigator based in East New Britain, expresses her long-standing desire for this training:
“Before, I had to rely on reading old court files to learn the ropes. It was an intimidating experience as I was the only woman in the unit and felt unequipped to ask for guidance.”
Senior Constable Felicitas Mare, a police prosecutor from West New Britain, emphasizes the importance of the course:
“After completing this training, I’ll feel confident in handling fraud cases.”
Future Training Initiatives
Plans are underway to conduct further training in Mt Hagen for officers based in the Highlands region. This initiative is supported by the Australian Government through the Justice Services and Stability for Development Program.
In Attendance at the Training’s Commencement
East New Britain Deputy Governor Cosmas Bauk and PNGC Assistant Commissioner, Island Region, Anton Billie graced the occasion, alongside instructors and participants, at the commencement of the Fraud and Corruption Investigation training, in Kokopo, East New Britain province.
“This training will enable the police to effectively investigate and prosecute fraud and corruption cases, contributing to a safer and more stable Papua New Guinea.”
- Australian High Commission spokesperson