POLICE Minister Sir John Pundari has warned that if Papua New Guinea is not strong, it will be the weakest link in the Pacific as far as narcotics and drugs are concerned.
Sir John told Parliament that nightclubs were being used for illegal drug trading.
“The Americans are seeking a market in Asia or Australia, and Asians are seeking a market in Australia for these drugs,” he said.
“They have used our country as a transit point.
“These drugs are finding a market in the country and it should concern everyone.
“All border agencies of the state together with the police, airport security and sea ports will have to work together with the joint action taskforce.
“They need to be well equipped, trained and have the capacity.
“We need to get assistance from the US and Australia.”
Sir John was responding to Abau MP Sir Puka Temu who wanted information about transnational crimes, organised criminal groups involved in hard drugs like methamphetamine, cocaine and heroinne in the country.
Sir John said transnational crimes such as drug trafficking was taking place in the country and state agencies needed to be vigilant.
He said organised criminals had already dented the country’s laws and policing capacity.
Sir John also said Pacific police ministers and chiefs were sharing information and intelligence to protect the region.
“The insiders of these organised crimes and drug movements have to be exposed only if we have an effective and efficient stronger taskforce that is connecting and sharing intelligence.”
