New Enga police chief vows ‘rule of law’ will end customary compensation

Enga Province officially ushered in a new era of law enforcement yesterday as Chief Superintendent Steve Harris assumed command as Provincial Police Commander [PPC], vowing to prioritize the rule of law over traditional settlement practices.

The hand-over-take-over ceremony, held in Wabag Town, was witnessed by senior members of the Royal Papua New Guinea Constabulary (RPNGC), public servants, and the general public.

In his inaugural address, Chief Superintendent Harris sent a clear message to lawbreakers, stating that the practice of using customary obligations or compensation payments to settle criminal acts is over under his watch.

"Any customary obligations or compensation payments to pay for crimes committed has come to an end," Harris said. "All lawbreakers will face the full force of the law, and the rule of law will prevail."

Harris succeeds outgoing PPC Chief Inspector Kelly Sombe, whom he congratulated for serving the province with pride and distinction. During the ceremony, which included a formal parade and the symbolic signing of provincial police documents, Sombe thanked the Enga Provincial Government and the Police Department for their support during his tenure.

Sombe acknowledged the persistent challenges of tribal fighting and law and order issues in Enga, saying that police continue to do their best to secure communities despite significant resource constraints.

Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP) for the Western End, Joseph Tondop, commended Chief Inspector Sombe’s leadership and expressed high confidence in the incoming commander. ACP Tondop said Chief Superintendent Harris brings the much-needed leadership and discipline required to combat tribal violence and stabilize the region.

The ceremony concluded with the official handing over of the office keys, marking the formal start of Harris’s term.