Police in the National Capital District have launched an ongoing “Drunk Patrol Operation” targeting public drunkenness and unauthorized alcohol sales in Port Moresby. Rising violence, fueled by alcohol abuse and public disregard for laws, has prompted the initiative. Acting NCD Metropolitan Superintendent Mazuc Rubiang confirmed the operation began on Friday, October 26th, and will continue through the end of next year, aiming to make residential streets and public areas safer. Speaking to NCD officers before deployment, the acting city police chief, Rubiang reminded his officers of the importance of maintaining police visibility in public spaces. "The city is facing a lot of law-and-order problems, so the operation should start early.” He noted that crime in the nation's capital is becoming a concern for both residents and the international community, adding that officers are working to “bring back the trust of the people of this country.” Supt. Rubiang further emphasized the collective responsibility for safety, urging the public to cooperate with police efforts and obey the law. “It’s not good that such a situation can affect our main city,” he said. He further stated that Port Moresby is a gateway for Papua New Guinea. “Our people living here have to be safe—your people, your family are doing shopping, going to market, and the kids are attending schools here." "Criminals don’t have a place here." "We will fight for the betterment of our people.” The operation comes under the code-named “Operation Harim Tok,” and is targeting public intoxication, unauthorized alcohol consumption, and sales in illegal locations. Rubiang explained that officers are conducting stop-and-search patrols, checking vehicles, and apprehending individuals selling or consuming alcohol unlawfully. Police will also arrest anyone deemed a threat to public safety or suspected of planning a criminal act. Chief Inspector Tobby Hamago, the Operation Commander, echoed Rubiang’s call for unity and discipline within the police force, urging officers to follow instructions closely to maintain team cohesion and improve safety. He said Friday’s patrol marked just the beginning of ongoing efforts and wants cooperation from all members to turn up next Friday, November 1st, and the following Friday until the end of 2025 to see a positive result in that Drunk Patrol operation. Rubiang further highlighted the need for cooperation from residents, saying that police alone cannot restore the safe Port Moresby of the past. “The police cannot bring back all the good and safe Port Moresby that used to be in the past - it will be a collective effort from all the people living in the city and those traveling into the city.”