A joint task force of police and defense force personnel is set for operations related to the Vote of No Confidence (VONC). The Papua New Guinea Defence Force (PNGDF) has deployed up to 120 personnel to support the 400 police officers involved in maintaining peace and order starting today (Tuesday, May 28th) when Parliament resumes. Northern Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP) Peter Guinness, who is the acting Commander of NCD and Central Province division, has assured the public that the police will remain neutral throughout this period. In a press conference along with NCD Metropolitan Superintendent Silva Sika, and the joint task force commander, PNGDF Lieutenant Colonel Velmoore Kagena, ACP Guinness also warned police and military personnel at Boroko Police Station, and also other personnel around the country to allow the political situation be resolved by politicians in Parliament, urging citizens also not to incite unrest. "Ordinary citizens should not use the situation to create unnecessary excitement or anxiety, which may lead to law and order problems." "Police, assisted by PNGDF soldiers will work together throughout the city and Central Province in the lead up to, during and after the VONC is tabled and deliberated on floor of Parliament." ACP Guiness said police will secure all access and entrances leading into the precincts of Parliament in case of a crowd build up or surge, while defence soldiers will assist patrol of the outer perimeters of Parliament from now until the VONC is settled. "While we focus on providing security for parliament, normal day to day police operations will continue." "I am warning all police men and women to refrain from taking sides with anyone or any group." He said there will be no serving police or military personnel providing private escorts to any MP, especially those from other provinces. He warned that if found, that officer will be deported back to the province they came from, and any issued firearm on that officer will be confiscated, and they will be disciplined under their rightful command. "We will monitor all security activities, and police personnel who are found privately aiding or assisting politicians at this time of the VONC will be disarmed and dealt with through the Constabulary's disciplinary process." "We must protect the integrity of the Constabulary." "The tragic events of January 10th are still fresh in the hearts and minds of people, therefore security issues concerning the VONC will not be taken lightly." "We will come down hard on anyone who attempts to cause problems on the streets of Port Moresby at this time of political uncertainty, and will be patrolling major settlement areas so there is no repeat of the looting, burning of buildings etc." He reiterated that the joint force will ensure peace and order across NCD and Central Province, securing Parliament and monitoring activities related to the VONC. Meantime, NCD Met. Supt. Silva Sika said there will be no liquor ban or curfew at this time, unless it is warranted during this period.