Oppostion calls on Baki to arrest, charge his officers for professional negligence

PORT MORESBY: Opposition Leader Don Polye said he was shocked to learn about professional negligence of police officers on a victim of domestic violence.

And Mr Polye has called on the Police Commissioner Gary Baki to arrest and charge those responsible for professional negligence.

He made the call when commenting on 42-year old Ruth Apina who broke the silence of her suffering on the hands of her violent husband.

“It was shocking to know that despite she reported her case of domestic violence to Hohola and Boroko police stations thirteen times, she wasn’t helped to seek justice and peace.

“This is weird and I am urging the commissioner to look into this case to find out who the culprits are and charge them accordingly,” said an upset Polye.

He has queried how those policemen, who handled her case, would have reacted if she had been their own wives, nieces, daughters or even relatives.

Mr Polye described the negligence as inhuman, saying such act is common with those who lack emotional and moral skills to perform their duties.

“It is hard to understand those officers, who denied justice and legal protection on the victim when she needed it desperately.

“It should stop here as this is unprofessional and lacks moral values,” he said.

The Opposition Leader has also called on Baki to arrest and charge the husband of the victim.

“Our alternative government does not tolerate violence against women and girls, and that heavy penalties must be imposed on law breakers.

“When we are in government, we will strengthen the systems on domestic violence with adequate funding to ensure justice is served on our silent victims,” he said.

Meanwhile, Mr Polye has urged other women to imitate Ruth’s bravery if they experience similar ordeal.