The Acting Governor of West Sepik province in Papua New Guinea says he is satisfied the border with Indonesia is secure despite reports of foreign soldiers crossing into the country.
The PNG/Indonesia border at Wutung. Photo: RNZ / Johnny Blades
The PNG military is investigating claims that eight armed Indonesian soldiers went to the edge of a village before turning back and returning across the border.
Paul Negai says he understands the troops were in civilian clothes and may not have been armed.
Local villagers have expressed concern about the laxity of PNG authorities manning the border.
But Mr Negai says they shouldn't be worried.
"The level of border security is excellent. We don't have much problems here. From time to time we hear of elements of OPM, (the Free West Papua Movement), doing this and that but in general it is 80% fine. Let's say 90-95% fine. Border security is excellent."