PNG DEFENCE FORCE PARTNERS MAKE THREAT

PNG Defence Force. Getty Images

Bilateral Partners of the Papua New Guinea Defence Force have threatened to withdraw their support if ill discipline within the force continues.

The threats comes after reports of soldiers damaging properties belonging to the public and harassing people.

The Defence Force Commander Brigadier Francis Agwi revealed this in a media statement today.

Brigadier Agwi says international partners have sent warnings to withdraw support if disciplinary issues continue in the force, with NO change of attitude towards the public. 

He says if this happens it will be the biggest setback for training of military members in the future. 

The UN Peacekeeping Missions oversees currently negotiations may be affected greatly while high standard training plus international university scholarship programs offered to soldiers will face same similar consequences. 

The PNGDF Commander has issued orders senior headquarter staff to maintain constant communication with battalion commanders throughout the country. 

He further says this will ensure these commanders continue to counsel soldiers to maintain high standard of command and control on operations, training and logistic matters. 

Commander Agwi gave further orders for parades to be held every week to remind soldiers on safety, behaviour, conduct and most importantly their relationship with the public.