Madang police have intercepted a vehicle carrying over 10 cartons of illegal fireworks, arresting five people — including a serving Mobile Squad officer and a man wanted for a triple murder in East Sepik Province.

The operation, confirmed by Madang Provincial Police Commander Superintendent Robert Baim, followed intelligence about unauthorised movements of uniformed personnel into Madang and Bogia districts.

Officers monitored the Bruce Jephcott Highway stopped the vehicle at Draivas Compound around 9pm on Sunday 30th November. The vehicle carried five passengers: a serving officer, a wanted fugitive, a bank employee, and two other men from Yangoru-Sausia district of East Sepik province, along with a female passenger.

Police allege the group was attempting to smuggle the fireworks, reportedly destined for Southern Highlands province. The seized items, valued at more than K200,000, have been confiscated as court exhibits.

“This was an important operation because it prevented illegal goods from moving across provinces and resulted in the arrest of a dangerous suspect,” Supt. Baim said. The wanted fugitive will be handed over to East Sepik CID detectives.

All suspects are being held at Ramu Police Station, and the vehicle has been impounded. Charges under the PNG Customs Act are expected.

Supt. Baim reminded officers to follow protocol when travelling outside operational areas and urged the public to celebrate safely during the festive season as police roll out operations under the code name Sain Abe 3.