PNG Government retires Kulunga, appoints Geoffrey Vaki as new acting Police Commissioner

The PNG Government has retired Police Commissioner Sir Toami Kulunga  and has appointed  Geoffrey Vaki as the Acting Police Commissioner. This happened after Kulunga gave orders to arrest Prime Minister Peter O'neill. Prime Minister Peter O’Neill announced the appointment of Geoffrey Vaki after a lenghty discussion with NEC at the Parliament house.

“Cabinet has taken the decision to retire Commissioner Kulunga now under the circumstances. On behalf of our people, I want to thank him for his long and distinguished service to the constabulary and country,” Mr O’Neill said.

The Prime Minister welcomed the appointment of Vaki.

“Vaki has spent 44 years in the police force, covering all facets of police work from general duties, to training, and special operation.

“His wide experience will be a valuable asset to the force in the implementation of its Modernization Program.”

Mr Vaki has held various positions over 44 years, including Commander of NCD/Central, Commander Southern Region, Highlands Divisional Commander, and head of Special Services Division (SSD).

In 2007 he was appointed Deputy Commissioner (Ops) of Police until his suspension in 2009, over which he fought a long court battle and won.