Detainees told not to pay police

PEOPLE of East New Britain, especially those detained in police custody, have been urged not to pay bail money to police personnel.
Provincial police commander Chief Insp Januarius Vosivai made the call after a policeman was arrested and charged with stealing after collecting money from a detainee.
Vosivai said that the policeman was under suspension.
He said police were not allowed to collect bail money from detainees and urged people to tell police if they knew of police officers being involved in such illegal practises.
“As policemen and women, we must be honest in our duty and we must not collect money from suspects, complainants or anyone needing our help,”he said.
“I have been receiving complaints and this is my warning to police personnel.”
Vosivai said another police officer was arrested and charged with being in possession of firearm while under the influence of alcohol.
The suspect was suspended and he was expected to appear before the Kokopo District Court next week.
Vosivai said the incident occurred last weekend where the suspect, who was drunk, also attacked a female officer while she was on duty.