The St John Ambulance service in Lae had experienced a disappointing incident on Friday, 12 April where heartless perpetrators vandalized one of their ambulances, stealing vital equipment including an Automated External Defibrillator (AED) and personal belongings of dedicated paramedics. This appalling act, according to a statement occurred when unidentified individuals broke into the ambulance while it was parked at the Lae Main Market area. Momase Regional Commander Anderson Poumb condemned the act stating that this act not only undermines the crucial service provided to the community but also endangers lives. “The AED is not just a piece of equipment; it is a lifeline for individuals experiencing sudden cardiac arrest, a tool that can mean the difference between life and death in critical moments.” “We are urging whoever is responsible to return the stolen AED immediately to the Ambulance Station in Lae. “ Poumb said that it was disheartening to witness such behaviour after they had just completed an awareness program aimed at fostering community cooperation recently. “Our officers work tirelessly to serve the people in Lae, often facing challenging situations.” “The least that the community can do is provide a safe space for us to do our work.” “We implore anyone with information about the whereabouts of the stolen AED or the individuals involved to come forward and assist the authorities in their investigation.” Furthermore, St John Ambulance remains committed to our mission of providing emergency medical care to those in need. “We call upon the community to stand with us against such acts of vandalism and theft, which threaten the safety and well-being of us all.” Meanwhile a police report has been filed in Lae regarding the incident. The total estimated cost of the stolen equipment and items is approximately K21, 000 (with the Zoll AED pro alone valued at K15, 000 upon arrival in PNG).