Bougainville Police Service Faces Calls for Reform Amid K3.5 Million Fraud Scandal

A significant fraud scandal involving over K3.5 million has rocked the Bougainville Police Service (BPS), prompting widespread discontent and demands for a complete overhaul of the agency's leadership at Kubu Police Headquarters.

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A wave of intense frustration and discontent is building within the rank and file of the Bougainville Police Service (BPS), with calls mounting for a complete overhaul of the law enforcement agency's top command at the Kubu Police Headquarters.

The recent high-profile arrest of Moses Kulapia, the BPS Provincial Administration Officer (PAO), has brought the issue to the forefront. Kulapia faces 29 serious charges, including false pretense, money laundering, and the misappropriation of official police funds. The alleged illicit activities are reported to have taken place over a six-year period, from 2017 to 2023.

The arrest, carried out by the National Fraud and Anti-Corruption Directorate from Port Moresby, has fueled frustration among the rank and file of the BPS. Many officers are calling for fundamental changes in the top command, citing a loss of confidence in the current leadership's ability to manage the service's finances and maintain integrity.

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The growing unease follows the recent high-profile arrest of the BPS Provincial Administration Officer (PAO), Moses Kulapia, who was formally charged by the National Fraud and Anti-Corruption Directorate from Port Moresby.

This scandal raises serious questions about financial oversight and accountability within the Bougainville Police Service. The substantial amount of allegedly misappropriated funds underscores the gravity of the situation and the urgent need for reforms to restore public trust and ensure the proper functioning of the law enforcement agency.

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Kulapia, 60, faces 29 serious counts, including false pretense, money laundering, and the misappropriation of over K3.5 million from official police funds between 2017 and 2023.