PNG Immigration Minister Orders Crackdown After Port Moresby Trafficking Discovery

PNG authorities are preparing a wider investigation into alleged human trafficking and people-smuggling activities in Port Moresby after 39 Indonesian nationals were rescued from a residential property in the city.

Immigration and Border Security Minister William Bando has responded to the incident by warning foreign nationals and local officials against becoming involved in criminal networks operating inside PNG. Four Chinese nationals have been detained while police investigate the circumstances surrounding the Indonesians.

Immigration and Border Security Minister William Bando/Photo supplied

Mr Bando said a special task force would be formed to examine the alleged trafficking operation and establish who was involved.

He said the use of residential properties to conceal people who were allegedly being exploited for cheap labour or other unlawful activities was a matter of concern for the Government.

Foreign nationals linked to trafficking activities could have their visas cancelled and be deported, while those involved could also be prevented from returning to PNG, he said.

Mr Bando said PNG must strengthen its defences against organised criminal groups seeking to use the country as a base or transit route for activities extending across national borders.

He said intelligence received by authorities pointed to allegations involving several forms of organised crime, including trafficking in people, illegal logging, illegal alluvial mining and money laundering.

The minister also raised concerns over allegations that government agencies could be used by criminal groups to support their operations.

He urged foreigners who live, work or invest in PNG to observe the country’s laws.

“Failure to do so will result in detention, prosecution and removal,” he said.

The warning was also extended to Papua New Guineans working in key government agencies, including immigration, customs and the police.

Mr Bando said public servants who assisted criminal operations would face criminal prosecution.

He said weaknesses in immigration and border-control systems needed to be addressed because such gaps could provide opportunities for organised crime.

The Government, he said, would work on stronger border controls, tighter immigration policies and increased penalties for people in trusted positions who deliberately assist criminal activities.

Mr Bando said he would also advocate for a national migration policy and a full review of the Immigration Act 1978 as part of efforts to strengthen PNG’s border protection framework.