The Commissioner of Police, David Manning, has confirmed that Royal Papua New Guinea (RPNGC) and Papua New Guinea Defence Force (PNGDF) continue to strengthen counter-terrorism operations in the Highlands region.

With a heightened security forces presence in the upper Highlands region, joint security operations have been consolidated with the appointment of Commander Anthony Wagambie Jr. as operation commander.

“Protecting the innocent men, women, and children of the Highlands Region is the priority of deployed police and soldiers.”

"With a significant joint security force presence building in the upper Highlands region and concurrent investigative activity, it is appropriate that on-the-ground command of this operation be supported by an experienced operational commander.”

“After a period of time away from command duties, Mr Wagambie has today been commissioned to the rank of Commander and assigned to spearhead the operational command against these acts of terrorism.”

“This appointment reflects Commander Wagambie's extensive policing experience.”

As operation commander of the joint security response, Commander Wagambie will deliver on-the-ground command to ensure that the rule of law is respected by communities in this region.

“Commander Wagambie knows what is expected of him in coordinating operations.”

“Upholding the rule of law, protecting innocent communities, and bringing to justice those who have sought to hold our nation to ransom.”

Meanwhile, Commissioner Manning said that the government has declared there must be zero tolerance in dealing with those who terrorise our communities, and our security forces are meeting this objective.

Further details on this ongoing operation will be provided at an appropriate time.