The Royal Papua New Guinea Constabulary (RPNGC) has increased patrols, including undercover patrols on board public transport buses in Port Moresby city, in an effort to curb crime in public places.
Police Commissioner, David Manning emphasized that this is part of an overall initiative in Port Moresby and across the country to deter any form of crime and also ensure the safety of commuters.
In a recent patrol, police officers detained a suspect on board a PMV bus at Hohola where a handgun was confiscated, preventing a potential robbery from happening.
Another incident was at the Koura Way on the June Valley side where an armed robber was caught by police while his fellow criminals escaped.
One of the youths dropped a home-made gun and fled once noticing police presence. The weapon is now in police custody while investigators track down the youth who clearly thought twice about his actions when faced with police.
These youths will face serious charges, and investigations are ongoing.
Police will continue the patrol in plain clothes and in uniform for an unspecified duration and initiate similar programs in other centers around the country, said Commissioner Manning.
My message is clear that every member of our police force has my full and unwavering support to neutralize violent offenders.
It is clear this message is being heard by petty criminals, as they chose to drop their weapons rather than face the consequences of confronting police.
Commissioner Manning concluded by saying that the message is simple, anyone who dares to commit robbery on board PMV buses should think twice as undercover officers will be out in force to make arrests and even shoot should it be necessary.