Joint security forces in Enga Province have intensified operations targeting alcohol-fuelled crime, with police and the Papua New Guinea Defence Force recording multiple arrests and major alcohol seizures during coordinated patrols across Wabag and surrounding areas.
The operations, conducted between 10 and 11 May 2026, are being led by the Enga Provincial Police Command under Chief Superintendent Steven Harris, focusing on restoring law and order in areas identified as hotspots for alcohol-related violence and public disorder.
The Royal Papua New Guinea Constabulary (RPNGC), working alongside the Papua New Guinea Defence Force, confirmed the seizure of 57 cartons of SP beer during targeted patrols in Wabag Central Business District, Kamas, and Und Village.
Authorities also arrested 14 individuals for drunk and disorderly behavior, while one foreign national was detained for further investigation.
PPC Harris said the operation is part of an ongoing crackdown on illegal alcohol supply and consumption, which he described as a major driver of violence in the province.
“Alcohol continued to be a major driver of violence, disorder and offending across Enga Province,” Harris said.
“We have seen assaults, tribal violence, domestic violence, public disorder and serious offending linked directly to intoxication and the illegal sale of alcohol.”
He added that joint security operations would continue aggressively across the province, including patrols, checkpoints, searches, and targeted enforcement actions.
“The combined security operation under my command is ramping up and not going away,” he said.
“You do not need a bush knife or an axe in town, around markets or in public places. If anyone is carrying those items unlawfully, they will be arrested.”
PPC Harris also responded to criticism of the focus on alcohol-related enforcement, defending the operational approach on the ground.
“I encourage those people who argue against focusing on alcohol-related violence and crime to stand in the middle of two groups of drunk men fighting and explain how their alternative approach would work,” he said.
He confirmed that over 500 cartons of illegal alcohol have now been seized in recent weeks as part of sustained enforcement efforts.
Despite ongoing tensions, Harris said recent operations had produced measurable improvements, including a reported 72-hour period with no tribal fighting, no major violent incidents, and no serious crime reports.
He credited the results to consistent enforcement, visible policing, and community cooperation.
“This is the result of consistent enforcement, visible policing, community cooperation and people making better decisions,” he said.
The PPC also acknowledged community leaders and residents who have supported the operations, saying many Engans want stronger enforcement to restore peace and stability.
He emphasized that Enga is not a conflict zone but a province with strong cultural values and deserves safety and order.
“Enga is not a war zone, but it is a province with strong people, strong culture and strong communities that deserve safety, stability and the protection of the law,” Harris said.
Security forces confirmed they will continue joint operations as efforts intensify to reduce alcohol-related crime and reinforce law and order across the province.
