Special security force for mines

A GOVERNMENT rapid deployment police unit to protect the nation’s mines, gas and oil fields, was mooted by acting PNG Prime Minister Jack Genia last month.

“The sole task of the force unit will be around-the-clock security for the mines

and oil and gas projects,” he said.

The 150-man unit will be stationed in Goroka in the eastern Highlands and will be strengthened to 300 by May.

The unit would supplement the reg ular force’s special services division, which was busy with disturbances such as

Bougainville tribal fights. □