Pacific

Illegal weapons in Bougainville now a law and order issue

15:23 pm on 17 March 2020

The governments of Bougainville and Papua New Guinea have agreed all illegal weapons in Bougainville will be addressed under the PNG Firearms Act.

Photo: RNZ / Johnny Blades

This was one of the resolutions passed in the Joint Supervisory Body meeting in Port Moresby last week.

In the discussions, both governments noted the weapons disposal process required under the Peace Agreement has been fully complied with and all gun related issues are now matters of law and order.

The JSB has further directed the Ministries of National Bougainville Affairs and Post-Referendum Consultation, to develop peace-building advocacy programs and re-integration and rehabilitation programs for veterans.

In addition, the leaders of both governments say all remaining powers and functions must immediately be transferred to the ABG with priority given to police powers and functions.