The Royal Papua New Guinea Constabulary (RPNGC) has recently reiterated that police officers are strictly prohibited from misusing firearms during law enforcement operations. Officers are not permitted to open fire under any circumstances unless faced with an uncontrollable violent situation.
This statement comes after a recent incident in Waigani Market, Port Moresby, where a police officer’s gunfire accidentally killed a civilian, sparking widespread public concern.
The victim, identified as Sandy Purel, a young woman from Mendi in the Southern Highlands Province, was fatally shot on Sunday while passing by the Waigani Market area.
According to reports, she was walking near the local bus stop when a police vehicle arrived to disperse street vendors in the vicinity. A police officer suddenly opened fire on the crowd, and a bullet struck Sandy, killing her instantly.
Benjamin Turi, Metropolitan Superintendent for the National Capital District and Central Province, firmly stated that the current police regulations do not permit so-called “warning shots.” Any use of firearms in a controlled situation is a serious breach of police discipline and endangers innocent lives.
“This behavior is unacceptable. We advocate for non-lethal enforcement methods, yet some officers cling to outdated practices with an arrogant attitude, unwilling to adapt to ongoing police reforms and modern standards,” Turi said.
According to the police report, the officer involved has been identified as a member of the NCD Police Special Operations Unit. He has been detained at the Boroko Holding Cell, and the Criminal Investigation Division (CID) officially launched an investigation yesterday. The officer will be formally questioned.
The investigation will focus on why the officer chose to fire directly into the crowd instead of discharging the weapon into the air. Turi condemned the act as “shocking” and grossly inconsistent with the professional conduct expected of a trained law enforcement officer.
The case is still under investigation. Police authorities have pledged to handle the matter strictly in accordance with the law and regulations, vowing to safeguard public safety and uphold the integrity of the police force.
