Papua New Guinea's police commissioner says the striking out of charges against two accused in a major drug case reflects the unprecedented nature of the offending.
PNG police loading cartons of seized cocaine. Photo: Melvin Levongo / RNZ Pacific
Last week the Waigani District court struck out some of the multiple charges against Australian pilot David John Cutmore and Italian yachtsman Carlo D'Attanasio due to procedural errors.
The pair, along with three Papua New Guineans, were accused of being part of a drug smuggling operation uncovered by police in July.
Commissioner David Manning said some of the charges against the men were a first for PNG and police were having to adjust to their requirements.
Manning said the issue also highlighted the need to reform the country's drug laws.
"I am determined to see that penalties in PNG for drug offences can be similar to that of our pacific neighbours if not tougher," Manning said.
In striking out the charges, the sitting magistrate said police may resubmit the charges at a later date if they could meet the procedural requirements.
Earlier EMTV reported that police intend to bring new charges against the men this week.