British mercenary chief free to leave Papua

Tuesday 08 April 1997 23:02 BST

Your support helps us to tell the story

From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.

At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.

The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.

Your support makes all the difference.

Tim Spicer, the Briton detained in Papua New Guinea for more than three weeks after an aborted mercenary operation, was told yesterday he was free to leave after illegal firearm charges against him were dropped.

Mr Spicer, 44, has completed giving evidence at an inquiry into his mission which saw the Papuan army rebel and force the Prime Minister, Sir Julius Chan, from office.The former Scots Guard had pleaded not guilty to illegally possessing a pistol and 40 rounds of ammunition, but the charges were dropped. Reuters - Port Moresby

Join our commenting forum

Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies

Comments

Stay up to date with notifications from The Independent

Thank you for registering

British mercenary chief free to leave Papua

Join our commenting forum

Thank you for registering