Armed Gang Ambushes Gold Convoy in Port Moresby, PNG Police Confirm

 Armed Gang Ambushes Gold Convoy in Port Moresby, PNG Police Confirm

 Ten armed men ambushed a private security convoy transporting gold and cash through the streets of Port Moresby before dawn yesterday, escaping with the loot as well as firearms taken from the guards.

Confirming the hold-up, Police Commissioner David Manning revealed that his officers had received no prior warning that the shipment was being moved through the city, and disclosed that a senior-level probe into the matter has already been launched.

 

Manning said the attack took place shortly after 4:30am, when two vehicles belonging to a private security company were boxed in by a group of unmarked vehicles.

“It is reported that at around 4:30 this morning two private security vehicles were intercepted by unknown vehicles in Port Moresby,” the Commissioner said.

He explained that the security personnel on board were quickly overwhelmed by the sheer number of attackers.

“Ten armed assailants held the security crews at gunpoint and proceeded to steal a quantity of gold and cash, as well as firearms,” he said.

Manning confirmed Deputy Commissioner for Specialist Operations Donald Yamasombi is leading the police response to the robbery.

“The investigation is under the direction of RPNGC Deputy Commissioner of Specialist Operations, Donald Yamasombi,” he said.

The Commissioner pointed out that the private firm responsible for the shipment had not informed police of its plans in advance, something detectives are now examining closely.

“The gold and cash were being carried by a private security firm and Police had not been alerted to the movement prior to it taking place,” Manning said.

He noted that policing arrangements for such transfers rest largely with the companies themselves.

“Police are not privy to the standard operating procedures of private security businesses that are contracted to carry commercial valuables,” he said.

Manning said statements are being taken from everyone connected to the operation.

“There are a number of witnesses that are being interviewed, including the private security crews, as well as management and workers from the firm,” he said.

He was candid about the shortcomings he believes contributed to the robbery.

“This is a very serious incident. Early indications are that the movement of these valuables by the security company leave a lot to be desired in terms of how the private operation was conducted,” Manning said.

“The RPNGC and the clients of these security companies expect the highest professional conduct by their management and personnel.

“Investigations are well underway into all aspects of this incident, including the operating procedures of the security company. The priority for investigators is the timely identification of those involved and recovery of stolen goods.”