Minister for Police, Hon. Sir John Thomas Pundari, CMG, KBE, MP, today officiated the groundbreaking ceremony for the new National Forensic Laboratory at Gordons, describing the project as a major milestone in the modernisation of the Royal Papua New Guinea Constabulary (RPNGC) and a tangible outcome of the strong policing partnership between Papua New Guinea and Australia.
Sir John acknowledged the presence of representatives from the Australian High Commission, the Australian Federal Police, and senior leadership of the RPNGC, noting that the mix of PNG and Australian officers “signifies the depth of cooperation” between the two nations.
He paid tribute to the long-standing historical ties between PNG and Australia, saying the shared sacrifices of past generations continue to underpin today’s security cooperation. “On the back of that history, we have built powerful bilateral arrangements that are delivering real, tangible outcomes for our people,” he said.
The Minister confirmed that the Gordons facility will be complemented by additional forensic hubs in the Highlands, Momase and New Guinea Islands regions, forming a nationwide network to strengthen evidence-based policing and improve justice outcomes.
Sir John called for aggressive investment in forensic science training, emphasising that modern facilities must be matched with highly skilled officers. “A well-capacitated, strengthened and modernised RPNGC means justice for our people and contributes to regional security, especially as we face increasing transnational crime,” he said.
He highlighted the importance of proper evidence collection, preservation and analysis, stressing that successful prosecutions begin with well-trained frontline officers. “Commit yourselves, be faithful, be diligent. The results of your training must be reflected in the work you do,” he urged RPNGC members.
Sir John also thanked Assistant Commissioner Jamie Strauss of the Australian Federal Police for five years of distinguished service in e visib e The Minister reaffirmed that the forensic facility will serve not only PNG but the wider Pacific region, supporting efforts to combat drugs, firearms trafficking, organised crime and other cross-border threats. “We are together in securing our region. This investment benefits Papua New Guinea, Australia and our Pacific neighbours,” he said.
Sir John commended Commissioner David Manning and the RPNGC leadership for ongoing reforms, noting improvements in policing visibility, discipline and operational outcomes. He encouraged officers nationwide to maintain high standards and avoid complacency.
“To the criminals out there — long gone are the days when confessions alone will determine your fate. Evidence will find you out. PNG is modernising, and the law will catch up with you,” he said.
The Minister concluded by thanking the Australian Government and reaffirming the Marape-Rosso Government’s commitment to strengthening the Constabulary through record in investments in infrastructure, training and capability development.
