Madang police boss cautions public servants against corrupt practices

Public servants in Madang Province have been warned against engaging themselves in corrupt practices following the arrest of a PNG Biosecurity Authority officer.

Provincial Police Commander, Superintendent Robert Baim sounded the warning after the recent arrest of a senior officer of the PNG Biosecurity Authority for extortion and official corruption.

Baim stressed that all public servants in Papua New Guinea are paid fortnightly salaries by the government to serve the people and not extort money from them.

The senior officer [name withheld] was arrested and charged by police for demanding money from Sinborn Trading Limited, a Madang-based timber company.

He was later released on a K2,000 bail.

PPC Baim explained that a manager of Sinborn Trading Limited had brought into PNG a rare dog specie from his country of origin without declaring it under the required laws of the country.

He said; “Instead of charging the expatriate man under the proper laws, the officer decided to ask him for a K1, 000 cash, assuring him he will drop the case. This happened between May 22-25, 2026.

“The sequence started on May 22, outside the Modilon House where the PNGBA or NAQIA office is located. The amount, however; escalated to K5, 000 on May 25, with continued phone calls and voice message via mobile phone."

The officer has assured the company that he would drop the case against it if he was paid the money.

“Part of the request was allegedly linked to his personal travel plans to Port Moresby for land matters involving his late father’s property,” Superintendent Baim said.

Police have also reported collecting screenshots, call logs and audio recordings from the conversations between the accused officer and the expatriate manager of Sinborn Trading Limited.

Baim said this particular case underscores ongoing concerns about the integrity and conduct of public servants.

Baim added; “Extortion and Official Corruption are serious allegations. The impacts of such conducts by public servants erodes public trust and confidence in the public service machinery. Public servants are paid fortnightly salaries by the government to serve the people and not go around extorting money from anyone.”

Police in the meantime are continuing investigation into this matter. The suspect is expected to appear in court soon.