Moresby North-East MP, John Kaupa, has denied allegations that vehicles linked to the Port Moresby North-East District were found operating in Goroka, Eastern Highlands.
He said the claims were false and misleading.
Speaking during a media conference on Monday, Mr. Kaupa said the vehicles involved were privately owned and had no connection to district assets or public funds.
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The issue emerged after concerns were raised over two vehicles located in Goroka. Allegations claimed the vehicles belonged to the district.
However, Mr. Kaupa clarified that the vehicles belonged to his son and were donated by close family friends.
“As a second-term Member of Parliament and an accountant by profession, I fully understand the laws and systems surrounding district properties,” he said.
He explained that Port Moresby, as the nation’s capital city, has proper monitoring systems for government assets and district vehicles.
Mr. Kaupa also responded to claims raised by Hon. Francis Yori, MP for Salt-Nomane Karamui saying proper checks must carried out before public allegations are made.
According to Mr. Kaupa, authorities should have first confirmed ownership records through the Motor Traffic Licensing office before conducting investigations.
He also questioned the conduct of police officers involved in the operation in Goroka, alleging that one of the vehicles was damaged during the process after its rear windscreen was smashed.
Mr. Kaupa described the actions as improper and claimed correct procedures were not followed before the search was carried out.
Meanwhile, lawyers representing Mr. Kaupa have been instructed to begin legal action over the matter, including defamation claims and compensation for damages caused to the vehicles.
Mr. Kaupa confirmed that police have since cleared the vehicles and returned them to their owners.
The matter has continued to attract strong public attention on social media, while legal proceedings are now expected to follow.