The Governor of Papua New Guinea's capital has defended his administration's removal of razor wire from fences and gates around the city.
Razor wire, Boroko, Port Moresby. Photo: RNZ / Johnny Blades
Powes Parkop says Port Moresby is now safer than ever before and it is time the city stopped looking like a gulag.
Mr Parkop told the Post Courier the removal of razor wires around the city was not only a visual clean-up for the upcoming Pacific Games, but a long-term move to change the city.
He also said a lot of razor wiring had been put up illegally, without approval by the National Capital District Commission.
However, the newspaper reports that city residents and businesses have been angered by the NCDC sending workmen to remove razor wires around their homes and premises.
The residents claim they are now at an increased risk of break-ins.
But Mr Parkop is standing by the removal, saying it is part of efforts to change mindsets in the city.
