Police Commisioner Gari Baki aggrieved over stay order

Papua New Guinea Police Commissioner Gari Baki has expressed disappointment at the National Court's decision stopping his decision to dismiss senior fraud investigator Timothy Gitua and senior officer Thomas Eluh.

Mr. Baki terminated the pair last week on disciplinary matters - Mr. Gitua for discharging a firearm in a nightclub and Mr. Eluh for insubordination.

Commissioner Baki described the decision as a first, and unheard of in his 41 year career where a Police Commissioner's decision to dismiss a member of the Constabulary has been stayed by the courts.

He says, whilst he respects the court decision, it's equally important to note that the Police Act is clear in such situations, that the aggrieved member may seek a review of the decision in court.

Mr. Baki, says Section 27 of the Police Force Act 1998, stipulates that the Commissioner's decision in respect to the finding of guilt and penalty for serious disciplinary charges is final.

The Police Commissioner, says he will be seeking legal advise on the stay order.

Meantime, a PNG court has ruled that two Australian lawyers can return to the country and continue their work for the anti-corruption body Task Force Sweep.

Gregory Egan and Terry Lambert have been barred from returning to the country, despite being licensed to practice in PNG.

The two lawyers are assisting Task Force Sweep in a corruption case involving the Prime Minister.