Outgoing Correctional Service Commissioner and newly appointed Deputy Commissioner for CS Corporate, Bernad Nepo, has called on media organizations to uphold ethical reporting standards, particularly on social media, while urging Correctional Service personnel to support newly appointed Commissioner Noel Sarei.
Speaking during the official handover ceremony on Tuesday, June 16th, Nepo welcomed Sarei's appointment by the National Executive Council (NEC), describing it as a government decision that should be respected by all officers and stakeholders.
Nepo used the occasion to address public speculation and misinformation circulating online following the recent arrest of 20 uniformed Correctional Service officers by police on June 12.
The officers were reportedly intercepted at Rainbow Waigani while allegedly travelling toward the residence of the newly appointed commissioner.
In his remarks, Nepo distanced himself from the incident and emphasized that he supports the government's decision regarding the leadership transition.
"I want to dispel some of that misinformation going out on Facebook or wherever," Nepo said.
"Correctional Service is in good hands."
He urged officers throughout the organization to unite behind the new commissioner and continue supporting the institution's objectives.
"The same government that appointed me is the same government that brought him in. So, we have to have this kind of understanding with respect." Nepo highlighted.
Addressing media representatives present at the ceremony, Nepo challenged journalists and social media users to report responsibly and accurately, warning against the spread of unverified information that could undermine public confidence in the Correctional Service.
During his address, Nepo reflected on his two-year tenure as commissioner, highlighting what he described as key achievements despite limited resources.
He said maintaining prison security and preventing major prison escapes remained among the Correctional Service's most significant accomplishments during his leadership.
According to Nepo, those achievements were made possible through cooperation between Correctional Service officers, their families, prisoners, and the wider community.
He stressed that effective leadership and unity within the workforce were essential to the organization's success and encouraged staff to continue working together under the new administration.
Nepo concluded by assuring Commissioner Sarei of his support and the backing of senior Correctional Service officers, saying the organization would remain united as it transitions into a new leadership era.
"The public deserves the best from Correctional Service," he said. "We will stand as a united force with our new commissioner.”
