MADANG POLICE RAMP UP RESPONSE TO HIGHWAY ROBBERIES

Madang Police are boosting their response to a surge in highway robberies, with efforts now underway to make travel safer for both motorists and nearby communities.

Despite working with limited resources, police are rolling out new strategies and appealing to the public for support.

Provincial Police Commander (PPC) Acting Superintendent Robert Baim said officers are increasing their presence along high-risk stretches of road, including the Nauru section and the corridor between Usino Junction and Naru—areas frequently targeted by criminals.

“Our officers are now conducting regular patrols and manning key checkpoints,” Baim said.

“We’re also planning to strengthen operations at the Mano Quarantine Checkpoint, a critical point for monitoring movement along the highway.”

In addition to manpower, police are considering the use of technology, such as surveillance cameras and improved communications systems, to better track criminal activity. However, Baim acknowledged that ongoing resource shortages remain a challenge and urged community members to be part of the solution.

“Criminals are taking advantage of mobile phones to track our patrols and alert each other, which makes it more difficult to catch them,” he said.

“We need the public to work with us and report anything suspicious.”

Baim stressed that community members often hold valuable information that could lead to arrests.

“There are people who know who’s behind these attacks. Speaking up could prevent further crimes and help protect lives and property,” he added.

He also pointed out the difficulty of prosecuting offenders without solid evidence or eyewitnesses.

“If suspects aren’t caught red-handed, it takes time to gather enough proof for court. That’s why we need witness statements,” Baim said.

The commander also raised concern about individuals who may be indirectly supporting criminal activity by buying or benefiting from stolen goods.

“That kind of behavior only undermines our work. We ask the public to refuse stolen items and cooperate with investigations,” he said.