PEACEFUL NEW YEAR CELEBRATIONS IN MADANG COMMENDED

The Madang Rapid Response Network (MRRN) issued its heartfelt commendation for the outstanding work of Madang Provincial Police Commander, Acting Superintendent Robert Baim, and his dedicated officers who ensured peaceful and safe New Year’s celebrations throughout the province despite challenges with limited logistical resources.

The MRRN administrator Mr John Newton Ariku acknowledged the exceptional teamwork of the Madang police, underscoring their ability to maintain order and security in collaboration with local communities.

Notably, the success of this operation was driven by the innovative efforts of the MRRN, which is an online platform designed for the efficient and immediate reporting of emergency cases.

The MRRN platform allows the public to quickly report a range of emergencies—whether related to police, fire services, ambulance needs, disasters, or search and rescue operations.

It operates through a single WhatsApp group that serves as a central hub for all emergency-related communication, making it easier for the relevant authorities to coordinate responses in real time.

This proactive system ensures that critical resources and help can be mobilized swiftly across Madang Province, which is especially crucial in situations where every second counts.

The platform also fosters transparency and coordination between the public and various emergency and security agencies, helping communities stay informed and safe.

Since its inception on November 23, 2024, the MRRN has already demonstrated its effectiveness.

The network successfully coordinated two search and rescue operations with the Madang Water Police and the Maritime Rescue Coordination Centre (MRCC).

Through real-time online coordination by MRRN, two dinghies and their passengers were rescued—one in the waters of Astrolabe Bay and the other off West New Britain.

These operations exemplify how the MRRN platform is already playing a vital role in emergency response, providing swift, effective communication and collaboration among the agencies involved.

“I also want to sincerely thank Acting Superintendent Robert Baim for his leadership during the successful outcome of the Xmas-New Year Police Operations Saen-Habe II under his command. Despite facing limited logistics and dealing with a few reports of drunkards and noise pollution, the operation was a tremendous success, ensuring the safety and peaceful celebrations in the province.”

“His team’s dedication, especially during such demanding times, is truly commendable,” said Mr Ariku.

Mr Ariku also took the opportunity to extend a special thanks to the Community Policing Unit (CPU) members from each ward in Madang District and other districts across the province.

Their unwavering volunteer efforts played a critical role in ensuring that communities at the village and ward levels celebrated in peace.

“Without the tireless contributions of the CPU members, our villages and communities would not have been able to enjoy these celebrations in a peaceful and orderly manner. I salute each CPU member for their service and look forward to working alongside them throughout 2025.”

In addition to the police, the MRRN also extended its gratitude to the Correctional Services (CS) officers from Beon Goal for their active involvement in maintaining security during the New Year’s festivities.

The disciplined and professional presence of all security forces contributed to an atmosphere of respect and order.

Looking ahead, Mr Ariku highlighted that the Madang Rapid Response Network is currently working in collaboration with the Office of the Provincial Police Commander (PPC) Madang, the Office of the Madang Governor, and the Office of the Minister for Internal Security to roll out the concept as a pilot project within Madang Province in 2025.

This initiative will continue to strengthen the network’s efforts to provide seamless emergency communication and improve the speed and efficiency of response efforts across the province.

The Madang Rapid Response Network remains committed to ensuring the safety of all residents by creating a unified communication channel, empowering local communities, and providing essential services in moments of crisis.