16 Dec 2013

PNG police investigators promise swift action in Wewak

3:19 pm on 16 December 2013

The man in charge of a police team heading to Wewak in Papua New Guinea to investigate the alleged rape of an 18 year old girl by local policemen says they can take swift action once they're on the ground.

The investigation will also look into the alleged beating and detention of the president of a women's group who, with members of the girl's family, went to lay an official complaint more than a week ago.

Acting assistant police commissioner Donald Yamasombi says they will also examine an incident last Wednesday where it's claimed a drunk soldier was severely beaten by police.

That triggered an angry response from soldiers who converged on the police station the next day, and brought the town to a halt.

Chief Superintendent Yamasombi says they can stand down officers suspected of involvement in the rape.

"That is the whole reason why we've got you know like myself going on board in this investigation as a senior officer, those are decisions that we can make straight on the spot and take necessary action when and where it's deemed necessary."

Donald Yamasombi.

The vice president of the East Sepik Council of Women says the president has been released on bail on charges of obstructing police and leading a protest.

The parents and brothers of the alleged rape victim are still in jail.