Police contain the crowd gathered at Boroka station. Photo: RNZ Pacific / Melvin Levongo
Transparency International in Papua New Guinea doubts giving police new powers will overcome a surge in kidnappings and demands for ransom.
The amended Criminal Code Act will give police the power to deal with what the Police Commissioner, David Manning, is calling 'domestic terrorism'.
Mr Manning says the changes establish a clear legal process for the escalated use of up to lethal force, powers of search and seizure, and detention, for acts of domestic terrorism.
It comes after gangs of youths near Bosavi in Southern Highlands seized at least three groups in recent months, threatening their lives, demanding money and, in some cases, allegedly raping the victims.
Transparency PNG's chair, Peter Aitsi told RNZ Pacific's Don Wiseman he doubts the law changes will be effective.
