Police in West New Britain (WNB) have advised that they are now working around the clock to assist in the evacuation of the people of Mt. Ulawun, following its eruption earlier this week. Provincial Police Commander (PPC) Superintendent Peter Barkie told PNG HAUSBUNG that police personnel are now being mobilized and will be working to provide assistance to those displaced. Barkie said for starters they have restricted movement between East and West New Britain and have set up roadblocks to ensure movement from Mt. Ulawun is uniform and also to make sure that safety and security remains top priority for civilians. “We’ve done as a deterrent for those that want to use this as an opportunity to take advantage of the situation.” The decision to devise an evacuation plan follows an urgent Provincial Disaster Committee on Tuesday, in which K3million was budgeted to carry out the evacuation. “The committee met and through this we have declared a state of emergency in the province and will be moving to make sure our citizens are moved to safety. This is actually the biggest eruption since 2019.” He stated that they have been instructed to move villagers out to a 35km radius from the Volcano. He added that this is the initial phase of the evacuation efforts, today the committee will come together again to discuss how aid will be provided during the affected villagers stay. A relieved PPC Barkie was at ease after initial reports stated that no casualties have been reported as yet and hopes that this remains.