The ICAC has strongly emphasised that it cannot be intimidated from carrying out its mandated function to investigate the conduct of public officials and public bodies including private individuals/entities who may have received or have influenced the use of public money.

Deputy Commissioner Daniel Baulch expressed this in a media conference on Monday 22 April 2024 at the ICAC office in Port Moresby. DC Baulch, noted that the ICAC has become aware that there are some who think they can attempt to intimidate the ICAC. “Let us be clear…you cannot and will not intimidate us from fulfilling our sworn commitment to the people and government of PNG”.  

He said in recent months the ICAC has quietly commenced investigations and started gathering evidence of corruption, adding that the Commissioners are not shocked about what they have seen so far, but disappointed in the willingness of some to steal from their fellow citizens, and to seek enormous wealth while others struggle. The Deputy Commissioner said he could not go into details of investigations at this time, to ensure ICAC investigations are not compromised as well as to ensure that persons of interest are given a fair and unbiased hearing before the court. However, he said the ICAC has received more than 100 complaints, most of which are bribery cases. “People are expecting additional payment just for doing their role” Baulch said.

Deputy Commissioner Baulch further added that the ICAC is recruiting more people for the fight against corruption. The people of PNG have had enough of corruption and corrupt people stealing their future. He said, “Millions of Kina is lost each year, money that could be used to provide schools, roads, and healthcare”.

He warned those who are involved in corrupt conduct or committing fraud, bribery, or are in any way misusing public money that, “corruption always leaves a trail that cannot be completely erased. The ICAC will use every means available to expose those involved in defrauding the state and the people of millions of Kina”,  

Media Conference at the ICAC Office Port Moresby

Deputy Commissioner Baulch appealed to those who have been engaging in corrupt conduct to report to ICAC before their associates report them to ICAC. “Be first in the door, not last if you’re corrupt,” he said.

 He said the ICAC Commissioners have committed themselves to come to PNG to help the people of PNG fight the scourge of corruption, adding that “the fight against corruption is not for ICAC alone. It is everyone’s fight”.