The Launching Program which was set to be staged at the old Kokopo Market in East New Britain for the 14 kilometre four-lane road to be officiated by Prime Minister James Marape, has now been deferred to a later date which will be announced. The decision was unanimously agreed upon by all ENB leadership due to the need to avoid any further escalation that may affect lives and properties. The launching was prepared for a five part Program to begin with a Guard of Honour by the Royal Papua New Guinea Constabulary and the Correctional Services at Tokua Airport, followed by the official launching program at the old Kokopo Market with presentations of Projects by the four districts the province. The decision for cancellation of today’s program is due to looting of shops which had occurred in Kokopo Town around 8am in which Fone Haus in the heart of Kokopo Town was completely ransacked while quick action by police deterred looters from looting Dima Trading in Omorong, Vunapope. Opportunists also attempted to loot Tropicana shopping center, however were deterred by police. Based on the decisions, the Senior Executive Management in consultation with the Provincial Police Hierarchy, has issued this information to the General Public. East New Britain Provincial Administrator, Mr Levi Mano, has also called on the general public to remain at home while shop owners have been advised to close indefinitely to allow police to monitor the situation. All shops in Rabaul and Kokopo are now closed until further notice. “All District Administrations and Local Level Governments must immediately engage with our people to ensure all people are grounded at home at this stage.” “There has been a temporary Curfew for the next five days from 6pm-6am Curfew to be imposed in our major towns of Rabaul, Kokopo, Kerevat and Palmalmal to assist police deal with this situation.” Meanwhile, the detail of the Curfew will be outlined by the Police Hierarchy and the public will be advised accordingly. This order is in force until further advise. Mano assured that safety is of paramount importance, therefore, everyone should remain in their homes at this time until business returns to normal.