PNG PM Marape calls for investigation after two Security firms clash at Port Moresby's International Airport

Papua New Guinea Prime Minister James Marape has expressed anger that employees of two security firms clashed at the Jacksons International airport e yesterday.

He’s called for an investigation as well as other operational and management issues with regards to the National Airport Corporation’s operation.

Mr. Marape says the incident is one of many such safety issues that have been happening at PNG’s premier airport and he’s not taking this lightly.

He says he’s not running Government for breaking rules, nepotism, and fighting for positions or contracts to grow roots in PNG’s State-owned agencies. 

The prime minister says NAC, as a state agency, must rise above this sort of nonsense because workplace safety is important for travelers, businesses, and the community.

He’s announced that the investigation will be headed by Mr. Thomas Eluh of the Independent Commission Against Corruption ( ICAC) with senior officers from PM’s Department, Police, Transport Department, and State Solicitors Office. 

He says other departments like Finance and Auditor-General will be called upon to assist when required.  

Mr. Marape says this should take one or two weeks where appropriate actions will be taken to restore credibility to the once-proud National Airports Corporation.

Civil Aviation Minister Seki Agisa is in support of this outside investigation that should ascertain what is happening at NAC.

Meantime, James Marape has called for the arrest of those involved in the airport melee, as well as terminating contracts of security companies who caused this fight at the airport. 

The Prime Minister has directed  ICAC to be on standby for similar probes into Government agencies that show symptoms of mismanagement and corruption.

Statement / PNG Today

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