PNG's Enga Police Chief Declares End to Customary Compensation for Crimes

Papua New Guinea Enga Province has welcomed a new Provincial Police Commander, with Chief Superintendent Steve Harris declaring that the rule of law will take precedence over customary compensation practices as he assumes leadership in the province.

 PNG's Enga Police Chief Declares End to Customary Compensation for Crimes

The official hand-over-take-over ceremony in Wabag Town drew senior officers of the Royal Papua New Guinea Constabulary, public servants, and community members, marking what authorities described as a new direction for policing in the highlands province.

In his first address after taking office, Chief Superintendent Harris warned that criminal acts would no longer be settled through traditional payments or obligations, stressing that offenders would be dealt with under the country’s legal system.

“Any customary obligations or compensation payments to pay for crimes committed has come to an end,” Harris said. “All lawbreakers will face the full force of the law, and the rule of law will prevail.”

He takes over from outgoing PPC Chief Inspector Kelly Sombe, whom he praised for his dedicated service and commitment to maintaining law and order in Enga Province.

Chief Inspector Sombe, in his remarks, acknowledged ongoing challenges including tribal fighting and law and order concerns, noting that police officers continued to serve communities despite limited resources and operational constraints.

Assistant Commissioner of Police for the Western End, Joseph Tondop, commended Sombe’s leadership and expressed confidence in the new commander’s ability to restore stability and discipline in the province.

The ceremony ended with the formal presentation of office keys and signing of official documents, symbolising the beginning of Harris’s tenure and his firm stance that the rule of law will prevail. “All lawbreakers will face the full force of the law, and the rule of law will prevail.”