PNG police 'utterly disappointed' over repeat incest case

12:36 pm on 1 November 2019

Papua New Guinea's police chief is "disgusted" a man convicted of incest has been arrested again for the same offence, while on parole.

Papua New Guinea police commissioner David Manning

Papua New Guinea police commissioner David Manning Photo: Supplied

Acting Commissioner David Manning said the man from Central province was jailed for incest in 2001 but released on parole three months ago.

He was arrested just weeks later for allegedly committing incest against his biological daughter.

Mr Manning blamed the parole board, saying PNG society was facing a lot of social and moral issues and judicial agencies must ensure the laws and systems of governance were zealously protected.

"I am utterly disappointed with the parole board for literally allowing the suspect to abuse the victim again...

"This whole saga undermines the effort put in by members of the constabulary in bringing crime suspects to face justice," he said in a statement.

Mr Manning said the constabulary was contemplating creating more awareness about such crimes to educate people about the fundamental rights of women and children and what citizens could do to prevent or deter such crimes from happening within PNG's communities.

The constabulary would partner with churches, women groups, youths and NGO groups, he said.