PNG Commissioner Manning directs release of Lawyer Laken Lepatu Aigilo
Papua New Guinea Police Commissioner David Manning today directed the release of Mr Laken Lepatu Agilo from police custody following a meeting with Commander NCD/Central Assistant Commissioner Anthony Wagambie Junior.
Mr Aigilo was allegedly arrested yesterday by a police unit and locked up at the Boroko Police Station. Mr Aigilo in a post on social media alleged that his arrest by police was politically motivated. He was allegedly assaulted by policemen and locked up at the cells.
Mr Manning said, “There was no official complaint laid at any of the police stations against Mr Aigilo. No arrest was done during the night when he was taken in and even up until today when he was brought to my office.
“After my meeting with Mr Wagambie, Metsup NCD Superintendent Gideon Ikumu and NCD Zone Commanders, I directed that he be immediately released. I apologised to him and assured him that an internal investigation will be conducted into his arrest and alleged assault.
“I further informed Mr Aigilo that he is entitled to seek legal redress should he choose to and that police will assist him in this regard. I also informed him that should a formal complaint be received in the near future in relation to his arrest last night then he is to make himself available to which he agreed.”
Following this incident Mr Manning called upon the members of the Constabulary to conduct themselves professionally and within the law. He said following the internal investigation he will not hesitate to impose the toughest administrative penalties if the policemen were found to have acted illegally and unethically.
“Should we find the conduct of our policemen to be criminal in nature then the criminal process will also be initiated against the policemen as well. The role of the police force is to enforce the law without fear, favour, malice or ill will. I have no time for ill-disciplined, corrupt, abusive and unprofessional policemen and women,” Mr Manning said.
Police Media
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