Papua New Guinea's police commissioner has confirmed an arrest warrant has been issued for the Secretary of Treasury, Dairi Vele, as Mr Vele denies he has gone into hiding to avoid it.
A view of the government benches in Papua New Guinea's parliament. Photo: RNZ / Johnny Blades
The Post Courier reports Gari Baki says the Waigani District Court has issued the warrant, following allegations of official corruption, misappropriation and fraud.
But Mr Baki says the warrant is yet to be executed, and the delay is a bureaucratic issue.
Mr Vele told the paper he had not been approached by any member of the Court or any member of the police for notification, questioning or processing.
He says he completely rejects a suggestion published on social media that he is in hiding, as it goes against his professional reputation and good standing.
The allegations relate to the purchase of two turbines for PNG Power Limited.