Security was ramped up at military bases, as disgruntled soldiers set up road blocks in the capital to vent frustrations over alleged government corruption.
A small number of soldiers manned roadblocks near the Murray Barracks in Port Moresby, protesting a recruitment scandal that has already forced the nation’s defence minister to step aside pending investigation.
Billy Joseph is accused of interfering with army recruitment, local media reported, enlisting soldiers from his home district in a process allegedly tainted by nepotism.
Believing they were unfairly targeted for blowing the whistle on the affair, a small core of soldiers have deserted their posts in protest against the government.
Chief of Defence Force Philip Polewara ordered all military units to implement “close camp” procedures for one month.
The security measures shut down weapons armouries, restrict the use of military vehicles and limit movements in and out of barracks.
Prime Minister James Marape urged the troops to “immediately cease” their protest.
In a nod to their concerns, he said all soldiers who raised allegations through proper channels would be protected. — AFP
