Australian Alan Scott appointed Deputy Police Commissioner in PNG

The Papua New Guinea Government has appointed former Australian Federal Police Assistant Commissioner, Alan Scott as one of the deputy commissioners in the Papua New Guinea Royal Constabulary.  Prime Minister Peter O’Neill  announced this while  welcoming the appointment by National Executive Council (NEC) of three Deputy Commissioners in the Royal Papua New Guinea Constabulary (RPNGC).

PM O’Neill said the appointment of Deputy Commissioners Jim Andrews (Operations), Raphael Huafolo (Administration) and Alan Scott (Reform, Training and APEC) will provide a substantial boost to raising the capacity of the police service.

“We are drawing on the demonstrated experience and capabilities of Deputy Commissioners Andrews and Huafolo to enhance stability and discipline,” the Prime Minister said.

“We further welcome the appointment of Alan Scott who brings with him international experience and respect from personnel in the RPNGC.

"As the former Assistant Commissioner from the Australian Federal Police Program in Papua New Guinea, he brings an international perspective to the the reforms that we need in our police force, and the training required to reach the next level.

“Alan Scott will further take on the role of coordinating safety and security for APEC preparations.

“The Joint Task Force on APEC Security is being formed that will draw in elements form numerous security agencies, and work direct with our foreign security partners.”

The Prime Minister said the appointment of Alan Scott is a demonstration of the functionality of bringing foreign advisors into the Government under the direct authority of the Government.

“Alan Scott will work in the chain of command as an officer of the RPNGC.

“The decision by the Government to bring to an end the direct placement of foreign advisors in national offices, and to employ them direct, will have positive outcomes for the country.

“The Bire Kimisopa Committee brought forward recommendations for the realignment of foreign advisers, and this is now a policy working across several Government departments.”

PM O’Neill said the people of the nation have made their opinions clear that they expect better from police and the appointment of the three Deputy Commissioners is another step in instituting reform.

“We have a lot of work that is needed to be done in modernizing our police and raising disciplinary standards.

“Our three Deputy Commissioners, working under the leadership of Commissioner Gary Baki, will provide the direction that is required across their respective commands.”