Police Commissioner David Manning has issued a stern warning to criminals that police are on high alert since Parliament resumed.
He said extra police officers and intelligence units are actively watching for crimes, including the misuse of social media, and that police are working hard to keep communities safe from misinformation and criminal activities, urging the public to stay alert and report any suspicious behaviour.
“Police presence is higher than normal right now so this is a warning to not try to break the law because you will be caught, arrested and face the law.”
“We have an increased number of police on the ground, the number of investigators has been increased and intelligence units continue to actively track criminal activities.”
“This also includes the monitoring of the misuse of social media and communications platforms to identify and interdict those who commit technology-enabled crimes, sow discord or incite acts of violence.”
“Our communities deserve to be able to go about their daily business without unscrupulous individuals seeking to spread misinformation, sow discord, or take unfair advantage of the public.”
With the resumption of Parliament, Manning has placed criminals on notice not to make misguided assumptions and break the law.
The Commissioner’s comments follow a recent surge in attempted break-ins and robberies in Port Moresby, and an intensified police operation.
“Police presence in NCD, Central Province, and key provincial commands has been stepped up,” he said.
Enhanced police operations aim to ensure the smooth conduct of parliamentary activities and to prevent criminals from taking advantage of the situation.
“There are a number of elements to these enhanced police operational tempo, and one of these is to ensure that Leaders can attend Parliament without hindrance and the democratic process is facilitated with any potential disruptions being prevented.”
“Another intention of this increased police presence is to make sure that criminals do not think they can take advantage of the resumption of Parliament to commit crimes.
Manning emphasized that the police force is focused on maintaining a safe and secure environment for all citizens.
“There have been a small number of cases involving attempting break-and-enters and robberies in recent days, where criminals have assumed the attention of police is elsewhere.”
“These criminals could not be more wrong.”
“Operational Plans are in place for the …. Parliamentary session, and the Police Force is committed to maintaining a safe and secure environment for our communities to go about their daily lives and our political leaders to go about their business.”