MADANG COP & 4 OTHERS CHARGED FOR DR’s ASSAULT

A police officer and four others have been arrested and charged in connection with the alleged assault on pediatrician Dr. Jimmy Aipit.

Madang Provincial Police Commander (PPC) Acting Superintendent Robert Baim confirmed that Constable Greg Wii was arrested, disarmed, and charged with multiple criminal offenses

“The accused policeman has been charged with four counts of wounding under Section 322 of the Criminal Code Act, one count of assault occasioning bodily harm under Section 340, one count of unlawful discharge of a firearm, and one count of abuse of office,” Baim said

Four others—Paliau Greg, Desmond Kolgia, Koni Jude, and Joel Kata—were also charged as principal offenders under Section 7 of the Criminal Code Act.

Baim confirmed that police bail was denied due to the involvement of a firearm. “Under the Firearms Act, any serious offense committed using a firearm does not allow for police bail. Only the courts will determine and grant bail,” he stated.

The charges stem from an incident in which Dr. Aipit and his family were allegedly attacked by the accused. According to reports, the altercation began when Dr. Aipit’s son was assaulted near Kalibobo House, sustaining serious injuries. Dr. Aipit took his son to Jomba Police Station to file a formal complaint. The same officer allegedly returned with a group, forcibly entered his home, and attacked his family and other residents.

Dr. Aipit recounted being assaulted with knives, iron plates, and other objects, leaving him with multiple injuries. He also claimed that the officer, now in uniform and armed, threatened him and his children at the police station.

Medical staff at Madang Provincial Hospital have condemned the attack and called for immediate action to ensure the safety of health workers.

The accused remain in custody as investigations continue.