The Criminal Code Act in Papua New Guinea (PNG) is a key piece of legislation that codifies criminal law in the country. The Act was originally enacted in 1974 and provides a framework for defining various offenses, outlining the principles of criminal responsibility, and establishing penalties for criminal behavior. It encompasses a wide range of offenses, including but not limited to, theft, assault, murder, and sexual offenses.
Key features of the Criminal Code Act in PNG include:
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General Principles: The Act outlines the general principles of criminal law, including the presumption of innocence, the burden of proof, and defenses available to accused individuals.
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Classification of Offenses: Offenses are classified into categories, such as indictable and summary offenses, and the penalties associated with them vary accordingly.
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Penalties: The Act specifies penalties for various crimes, which can include fines, imprisonment, or both, depending on the severity of the offense.
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Procedural Matters: While the Act primarily focuses on substantive law (the laws defining offenses), it also touches on procedural aspects that govern how cases are to be prosecuted and defended.
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Amendments and Revisions: The Criminal Code has undergone various amendments over the years to address changing societal values, legal standards, and emerging issues.
The Criminal Code Act is an essential tool for law enforcement, the judiciary, and legal practitioners in PNG, as it provides the legal framework for maintaining public order and administering justice within the country.