Police in Madang province have taken a similar approach to that of police in Port Moresby city by increasing the bill amounts for offences committed in a move to deter increase in crime this festive season and onwards. Madang Provincial Police Commander (PPC) Acting Superintendent Robert Baim said the aim is to ensure this festive period is safe and peaceful for all in the province. “We have increased bail amounts for summary offences to K1, 000 or more; similar to the measures in NCD and Central Province. Offenders engaging in group fighting will face bail penalties as high as K10, 000 per individual,” said the acting PPC, when calling on the public to be responsible this season. He said that Christmas is a time to celebrate with family and friends, and on that note, he appealed to everyone to avoid drinking and driving. Baim's message follows a fatal accident at Bagawa Bridge last week Friday, which claimed two lives and left two others injured. He also cautioned premises owners against playing loud music after 10PM and warned that the production and consumption of homebrew would be dealt with severely. “Life is precious and comes only once- take care of it. Be safe this Christmas and celebrate responsibly.” Meantime, Madang's water police will conduct surveillance to ensure small craft operators are not intoxicated while ferrying passengers this festive season. Madang police are committed to ensuring a safe and peaceful festive season for all residents.