Death by Firing Squad
PAPUA New Guinea's government is considering implementing death by firing squad as it moves towards toughening penalties for violent crime. PNG's National Executive Council - a cabinet-like body - agreed on Wednesday to bring a series of bills aimed at toughening the PNG criminal code to parliament when it meets in two weeks. The changes will also activate the nation's existing death penalty, scrap its controversial sorcery act and dramatically increase sentences for rape and armed robbery. PNG Prime Minister Peter O'Neill says the level of serious crime in the community is unacceptable, particularly crimes of sexual nature and murder. "The heinous behaviours are perpetrated by a few but the country at large is made to suffer. We must act now to protect the majority," he said in a statement. "The proposed laws are tough but they are necessary. We have to address a situation that is destroying our country." Under the proposed laws, rape will now mean