POLICE FOR SAMOA.

New Zealand Herald, Volume LVI, Issue 17348, 20 December 1919, Page 8

POLICE FOR SAMOA.

THE NEW CONSTABULARY. A FINE BODY OF MEN. ARRIVE AUCKLAND TO-MORROW. [BY TELEGRAPH.OWN correspondent.] WELLINGTON, Friday. The newly-organised Samoan constabulary, the force which is to relieve the present New Zealand garrison in. Sajnoa, and ifi to be responsible for the upholding of the King's writ in Samoa on behalf of the LeaeTie of Nations, will leave by the Main Trunk express to-morrow for Auckland, en route to Samoa. The force comprises 35 mounted and 35 foot police. It is commanded by Major J. C. Hill, who, after being wounded on Gallipoli, was invalided to New Zealand, and was subsequently appointed assistant provost marshal for the Dominion. He holds the rank of inspector-general. The officers are : Inspector, Captain O. Prictor, who, after service abroad, held the appointment of military landing officer and railway transport officer for the Wellington military district; sub-inspectors, Cantain W. Watson, M.C., and Mr. Boddam, late chief detective, Wellington. There are one senior-sergeant, six sergeants, and 60 constables. Most of the constables are, returned soldiers. All are picked men and have been specially selected for their character, education, and physique. Critics who have seen them on parade pronounce the men to be of an excellent stamp- physically. Though a small force, they make quite an imposing show. The full dress uniform which is to be worn on State and other special occasions is of blue sercre with red stripes running down the trousers, red cuffs, red collars and shoulder straps, and white helmet with blue puggaree. It looks well, and should make a good impression in Samoa. The working dress is of light drill khaki with helmet. The mounted men wear riding breeches with black leather leggin ffs. The term of enlistment in the constabulary is three years, and the pay is NewZealand police rates plus tropical allowance.