Mrs Serah Meroke (R) presents the fuel docket to Inspector Anjap Minata (L), witnessed by OTDF Program Services Executive Eric Kuman (middle), association executives and police personnel
Kiunga Police received 877 litres of fuel costing K5, 000 from the Tutuwe Ara Women and Children’s Association on Thursday 28 December 2022.
The Tutuwe Ara is one of nine women and children associations under the Community Mine Continuation Agreement (CMCA) arrangement between Ok Tedi Mining Limited (OTML) and the mine impact communities.
Association Vice President, Mrs Serah Meroke made the presentation on behalf of the 29 Tutuwe Trust villages along the Kiunga to Tabubil Highway.
She said: “We did our association patrols and received reports of general law and order issues in our 29 villages. We can only do our part by supporting the police with fuel to control the issues in our communities as they are the authorised personnel by law to uphold peace and good order. We want to celebrate Christmas and New Year peacefully”.
Royal Papua New Guinea Constabulary (RPNGC) Kiunga Police Station Commander, Inspector Anjap Minata said the donation comes when his officers have rolled out special operations to monitor peace and order during this festive season. He said: “For as long as I can remember, this support is a first. I have spent about 14 years in Kiunga and receiving this support tells me that, the private sector have seen the need of the police.” He is hopeful, more support of such follows from the local business community.
OTDF Executive Manager Program Services Mr Eric Kuman on behalf of the association explained the existence of the association and the work it conducted in the communities.
“The women have a Five Year Strategic Plan with focus on development objectives, included is support to the law and justice sector. This donation is as much a part of the plan they are working towards achieving. The struggle is real, police presence is needed in all districts, Western Province is a huge area and with manpower and logistical issues it’s a nightmare. We can only imagine the challenges the police face.”