As the festive period gets closer, police in New Ireland will be looking to ensure that festivities remain civil and safe whilst celebrations are underway. Provincial Police Commander (PPC), Chief Inspector Albert Beli advised PNG Hausbung that the operation order for Christmas and New Year have come into post and all 81 regular and auxiliary police personnel in the province are set to conduct operations. PPC Beli stated that they will be trying to make sure that even though they may encounter challenges in movement of personnel, they will engage with the people on the ground in order to maintain law and order. “We will be utilizing village magistrates, village councilors and ward councilors, ward members and so forth because they are mandated leaders. This includes Church Groups, Public servants and Mama Groups” He said everyone plays a part in the society and is looking to engage with all stakeholders to take ownership of community law enforcement within their areas. As the commander on the ground, Beli is urging people to come forward if they see or experience any form of lawlessness. With plans already in place, Beli said they are looking at roughly K70, 000 to K100, 000 budget to conduct this exercise. He went on to state that they are working very closely with the provincial government to clamp down on alcohol related incidences this festive season and are looking to impose a liquor ban throughout Christmas and New Year. “Liquor ban is a paramount concern and as we get closer to the festive period, the New Ireland Provincial Government will be issuing a mini gazetted instruction, calling for the ban on liquor.” It is not yet determined the duration of the ban.