A coordinated police operation in Saidor Station, Raikos District in Madang has led to the arrest of five men and the seizure of a large quantity of marijuana destined for West New Britain, police confirmed last weekend. According to police reports, officers in Saidor acted on a tip-off on April 27 and intercepted two suspects at Lagap Beach who were allegedly transporting 14 kilograms of compressed marijuana. The two, identified as Alex Yango, 27, of Wab village, and Kenny Ismael of Gaptamon, were believed to be en route to Kimbe to sell the drugs on the streets. The confiscated marijuana, which police estimate has a street value of K200, 000, was secured as evidence, and both men were taken into custody. Meanwhile, a separate incident the following day resulted in the arrest of two more individuals. Lai Cherubim, 26, and Prope Mumukau, 31, were caught during an undercover police operation while allegedly selling two grams of marijuana for K50 to a buyer at Saidor Station. All five men were detained and later transported to Madang Town by a team from the Provincial Police Headquarters. They have since been charged under the Controlled Substances Act 2021 and will appear in court in the coming days. Madang Provincial Police Commander, Acting Superintendent Robert Baim, commended the swift action by officers and urged communities to remain vigilant. “This operation is a strong reminder that the trafficking of controlled substances has serious legal consequences.” “We are working closely with local communities to stop the cultivation and distribution of marijuana, particularly in areas like Nayudo LLG, which is becoming known for illegal drug farming.” Police say the region's cool climate and fertile soil make it ideal for marijuana cultivation and are calling for stronger community involvement to prevent further youth engagement in the drug trade. Investigations are currently ongoing.