Why police abuse in PNG is widespread,says Kalaut

Police abuse remains prevalent because intakes were not properly screened, says NCD-Central Commander, Assistant Commissioner Sylvester Kalaut.

Kalaut says one way to reduce the current trend of unethical behaviour within the Royal PNG Constabulary, is to outsource the recruitment process.

Reputable recruitment agencies should be allowed to screen all applicants before endorsing them for enlistment.

Kalaut, who is also the Divisional Commander for NCD/Central, said this during the Police Commissioner conference in Kimbe, West New Britain, last week.

He believes the prerequisite of recruitment should include psychological tests aimed at omitting applicants who do not possess the necessary characteristics, one oriented on sober habits, discipline and good work ethics.

“This will reduce police abuses by 60 to 70 percent across the nation,” he states.

“The six months of training at Bomana Police College is also insufficient.”

He says the inadequacy in training gave rise to instances of police abuses and discipline problems.

“Psychological tests and emotional training courses should be introduced into the syllabus and imparted to recruits at Bomana Police College.”