Commissioner Manning condemns extortion threat at Rouna 2, vow arrests

Commissioner of Police, David Manning, has condemned an extortion attempt by landowners threatening to interrupt water supply at Rouna 2 Hydro Station in Central province.

“Police will not tolerate the attempted extortion by these land-owners,” Commissioner Manning said.

“There are appropriate, lawful mechanisms available to resolve disputes, but these landowners chose to threaten essential services to the nation’s capital.”

The Commissioner of Police has directed Divisional Commander NCD/Central to oversee the police response, with Police to have zero-tolerance for criminals who threaten essential services.

“I have been briefed on the actions and threats of these interest groups and their so-called leader, Mr. Babea Toina.

“My directions are simple, that this so-called leader will be arrested as will anyone threatening to extort our communities.

“Police will not tolerate such selfish criminal actions from those who threaten our essential services for greed.”

Police operations remain ongoing. Further information on this matter will be released at an appropriate time.