The Rabaul and Gazelle Districts in East New Britain (ENB) have taken a collaborative approach to addressing law and order in their communities. The two districts in a joint statement announced that they have joined forces to confront the escalating law and order issues within their borders along the North Coast Road (NCR). There have been surges in criminal activities in recent months, included attempted hold-ups of public motor vehicles (PMVs) traversing the NCR, community fights, and unsettling incidents of harassment directed at women and young female students that have raised concerns. A recent attack on the Rabaul district staff at the district headquarters of Kurakakaul located between Iawakaka ward of Rabaul district and Kuraip ward of Gazelle district, has put added pressure on the current situation. Recognizing the urgent need for a collaborative approach involving both districts, a joint meeting was conducted at the Rabaul District Headquarters to come up with strategies on addressing the issues. The joint law and order meeting was attended by Rabaul Acting District Administrator, Gazelle District Administrator, Rabaul Police Station Commander including some ward members, and their ward development committees. In his opening remarks, the Acting Rabaul District Administrator Freddy Lemeki stressed on the importance of creating a good relationship with the neighbouring communities and working together with Gazelle district leaders in creating a safer community. “Addressing Law and Order issues in our communities is everyone’s’ business and we must take ownership of it.” He further highlighted that neighbouring communities within the Gazelle district access services from Rabaul district and therefore, law and order issues need a unified response from all stakeholders. Also speaking during the meeting was Gazelle District Administrator (on Leave), Mr. Hubert Wangun who emphasized the shared responsibility of safeguarding the Rabaul District administrative office and its services and added that it is crucial for both Gazelle and Rabaul residents, particularly in education and healthcare provisions. Meanwhile, the Rabaul District Police Station Commander, Senior Inspector Matthew Tende also revealed that numerous pending police cases from surrounding communities, they include retrieving illegal firearms, homebrew cylinders, and police uniforms through a comprehensive police operation. He urged the community's full cooperation through active participation in community policing efforts and emphasized the importance of identifying and reporting illegal activities within their neighbourhoods.