Police in East New Britain (ENB)are on high alert and in-search of under a dozen suspects that are responsible for vehicle hijacking and armed hold-up at a store in Rabaul, yesterday (Monday 1st September) around 12, midday.

From reports received from ENB Provincial Police Commander, Chief Superintendent – Amanda Kates, a PMV bus from Malex 2 was held up by up to 12 youths, armed with bush knifes and a homemade gun.

A number of school students were also on-board the PMV bus at the time of the incident. Fortunately, none of the students were harmed.

The incident has raised concerns about community safety and ongoing law enforcement efforts in the region.

After seizing control of the vehicle, the offenders used it to stage a daring hold-up at Lings Store in Rabaul. The thieves enter the store and took all the cash registers. Fortunately, the management of Lings had most of the cash, leaving only small amounts in each register.

The suspects then escaped the scene in the stolen PMV bus, resulting in a high-speed chase by police and Ling’s security contractor, NKCL Security.

The stolen vehicle was later abandoned near Malaguna 1 in a drain, adjacent to the local workshop. During the attempt to evade police, one of the suspects was shot and injured by police officers. The injured suspect was taken to Nonga Hospital, where he is receiving medical treatment. His condition remains undisclosed.

According to Chief Supt. Kates, the criminals, shot and injured one of the students while trying to evade capture; however, this is yet to be confirmed as police are still continuing their investigations.

Community members are urged to provide any information that might assist police with their investigation. The police force remains focused on ensuring that such violent acts are addressed swiftly and effectively.