Despite the challenges that they may face in shortfalls of Manpower or funding, Police in Milne Bay province have pledged that they will be vigilant in observing crime as the clock ticks down to Independence this month. Provincial Police Commander (PPC), Ben Kua has stated that for this independence they police will be on their toes to make sure safety and security of the people is secured. At this point in time, PPC Kua stated that they have not planned any special operations for the festive period, but has assured that police will be working on over drive to make sure the celebrations are smooth. “We are on standby to assist any situations before and during the independence celebrations.” He said police will be on full alert and monitoring celebrations closely given that although Independence may be a time of festivities and celebration, there are still people out there that are looking to cause trouble. He said at this time the police are still waiting on the events team to confirm dates for the festivities so they can plan security profile for all celebrations. Logistics continue to be an ongoing issue for the men in blue in the most archipelagic province of the country and the PPC also highlighted that the challenge lies in preparation ahead of the festive period. “We face very big problems with regards to logistics to oversee on the outer islands.”