Three men allegedly involved in the PGK160 million (US$45,3 million) drug bust through Papua New Guinea (PNG) have pleaded not guilty to the charges of aiding and abetting and conveying smuggled goods. Waigani Court adjourned their cases to the 15th of October. Australian aircraft pilot David John Cutmore’s case was adjourned to the 24th of September as well as the case of Italian yacht owner Carlo D’Attanasio, after his lawyer has questioned the validity of the charges. [1]
Prime Minister of Papua New Guinea Hon. James Marape says neither the cocaine haul nor accused pilot David Cutmore will be sent to Australia before PNG deals with the case. PNG Prime Minister told Parliament that the Government was very serious in prosecuting those involved in the drug transportation and that Mr. Marape had «personally said no to Australia» who asked to have Cutmore repatriated back to Australia. «It will not be moved without proper consultation between Australia and PNG, » Mr. Marape said. Meanwhile, PNG Prime Minister said that drug amendments will be presented in Parliament in November for tougher penalties against offenders. [2-3]
[1] https://www.thenational.com.pg/three-deny-charges-relating-to-drug-bust/
[2] https://www.thenational.com.pg/marape-said-no-to-australia-to-release-pilot-cocaine/
[3] https://postcourier.com.pg/govt-adamant-to-finalise-probe-into-drugs-bust/
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