About the Author

The Author is a good friend and a 'brother' to me. We first met in early 2002 when I traveled to Papua New Guinea from Australia to become his Police Adviser. At that time I had taken leave from Victoria Police (Australia) to work in Papua New Guinea for 3 years. John was, and has continued to perform the challenging role of Director Internal Affairs Royal Papua New Guinea Constabulary with distinction. I found Chief Superintendent Maru to be an honest and warm, caring man who is devoted to his wife (Manoka) and family and his Christian beliefs.

Christian Fellowship is part of the Author’s daily life and I know from personal experience that when seriously challenged, John has often looked to his Christian beliefs for guidance and strength in making some difficult decisions. He is a charismatic and passionate man who has integrity, impeccable family values and a strong sense of justice and fairness when carrying out his professional responsibilities. He is also a qualified Lawyer and often called on in his role with the Royal Papua New Guinea Constabulary to provide advice to the Police Commissioner and other members of senior command. The Author has traveled extensively through out the world representing the Constabulary. He is unafraid to share his professional life experiences with other members of the community or with his colleagues in the RPNGC in the hope they may reap the benefits of his personal and professional Endeavours. John is a leader of men who has always encouraged those around him to strive for high standards of achievement in their professional and personal lives.

There is a wonderful sense of humor in John’s personality which often left myself (and the rest of the team within the Internal Affairs Directorate) in uncontrollable laughter, gasping for air and unable to move. Despite the serious challenges of Office, John was always able to uphold a balanced perspective and not over react to changing circumstances. I believe this is why many in the community look to him for comfort and advice when confronted with personal hardship. This is also testimony why the Police Commissioner in PNG continues to have confidence in John’s ability to continue his role as Director Internal Affairs.

Since leaving Papua New Guinea I have retired after completing 31 years with Victoria Police (Australia) and have been working in Iraq with the local police and Coalition partners. John and I continue to correspond and I hope someday may be able to again catch up with each other. His friendship has a special place in my life and despite the passage of time and the differences between our respective cultures, I am confident our friendship will remain unchallenged and will stand the test of time. John will always be a respected, committed and trusted supporter of all that is right in Papua New Guinea and I wish he and his wonderful family continued happiness and success with their respective lives.

Lindsay Attrill

AUSTRALIA