15 Jun 2012

Police arrest PNG election candidate for possession of firearms

7:02 am on 15 June 2012

Papua New Guinea police in Mt Hagen in Western Highlands Province have arrested and charged an election candidate, Simon Sanangke, with possession of unlicensed firearms and ammunition.

Mr Sanangke is a candidate for the Mt Hagen Open electorate in the elections starting Saturday week.

He has been released on bail.

Hundreds of police and soldiers went into the Highlands provinces earlier this month with the directive they ensure security ahead of the election.

In a statement they say it's anticipated more raids will be conducted on known hot spots around the country to secure the environment for a free, fair and safe election.