Visit by Pope ‘exceptional’

Minister for Foreign Affairs Justin Tkatchenko has described the visit by Pope Francis as “exceptional”. He further stated no incidents were reported as being part of the Pope’s visitation. Six hundred men and women have performed above expectations of their directives providing support and quick response across the city as Pope Francis ends his third and final day in Vanimo.

Port Moresby residents have applauded the actions taken by the personnel who have continued to work throughout the day and night ensuring the safety of everyone, including the Pope. The commander of the operation on Pope Francis visit Assistant Commissioner of Police (operations) Julius Tasion said the work by the men and women went far beyond expectation. ACP Tasion said that so far there have been no major or minor incidents reported on the city.



The only thorn to the entire operations was the assault of Doctor Thomas Haiyaka at Gerehu Hospital on Friday morning between 3am and 4am. Two suspects have been apprehended with another two still on the run police said. “We will ensure the safety of the Pope until he leaves PNG,” ACP Tasion said.

While all eyes are on Pope Francis as he tours Port Moresby and Vanimo, West Sepik Province, the security operations behind the scenes will continue till the end of September. Commissioner of Police David Manning confirmed this, saying there was still Parliament and the 49th Independence Celebrations to be completed. He further said that the memories of Wednesday January 10 was still fresh and the operations would ensure such incidents don’t happen again.

Commissioner Manning said: “The city and businesses who were affected are still recovering, many investigations are occurring and we want those investigations to be resolved. “It is not as simple as it seems, the investigations need to be adequately concluded legally in court,” he added. “We as a Constabulary are not shying away from our own accountability of our actions, but it is a responsible thing to do to investigate thoroughly and minimise recurrence.

“So far the police operations have been positive. “My simple warning is do not incite, coerce, or encourage any looting or burning or destruction of properties” he added..