PNG criticises Aust over Moti extradition handling

The Papua New Guinean Government has criticised Australia for trying to extradite the newly appointed Solomon Islands Attorney-General, Julian Moti, from Port Moresby.

The Australian Federal Police wants to extradite Mr Moti from PNG to face alleged child sex offences committed in Vanuatu nine years ago.

However the PNG Government says Australia did not follow the proper channels in the lead up to Mr Moti's arrest.

It says Australia's letter requesting Mr Moti's provisional arrest was not signed.

PNG says Australia must take full responsibility for what it calls a diplomatic blunder that has caused political embarrassment.

Mr Moti is free to make his way to the Solomon Islands where he will take up the position of Attorney-General.