“Based upon investigations into the UBS Commission of Inquiry report, we are satisfied that Mr Peter O’Neill gave false evidence whilst under oath.
“I am appealing to Mr O’Neill to cooperate and make himself available by Monday morning to Director Crimes, Chief Inspector Joel Simatab, at the National Police Headquarters in Konedobu,” Mr Manning said.
Mr Manning said the ultimate objective of the Commission of Inquiry was to establish whether there were breaches of PNG laws and constitutional requirements in the negotiation and approval of the UBS Loan, whether PNG as a country had suffered as a result of the deal, and whether the persons involved can be held accountable.
The Police Commissioner thanked the Commission of Inquiry for looking into such a matter of national importance. He said the Commission of Inquiry was immense and extensive and has revealed a lot.
“After a thorough investigation and assessment of the facts, we are satisfied and have sufficient evidence that Mr O’Neill has perjured the inquiry, thereby committing an offence under the Commission of Inquiry Act of giving false evidence under oath,” Mr Manning said.
Note:
Section 10A. Chapter 31. Commissions of Inquiry Act 1951
“A person appearing as a witness before a Commission who, having been sworn, gives false evidence, is guilty of an offence. Penalty: Imprisonment for a term not exceeding 14 years.”