Minister for Police and Regional Member for Bougainville Hon. Peter L. Tsiamalili Jnr has applauded community behaviour over the festive season and encouraged a new mindset as the Nation prepares to mark 50 years of independence. “As we approach the end of 2024, I want to take this opportunity to acknowledge the support of all Papua New Guineans in ensuring a safe and happy Christmas celebration.” He said Police Commissioner David Manning has reported that the Nation celebrated Christmas peacefully, except for a small number of isolated incidents. “This is a testament to the continued work of our police men and women in building trust and engaging with local communities.” Over the Christmas break, all regions of the country and the Autonomous Region of Bougainville were reported to be peaceful. Whilst we continue to see incidents in some parts of the Highlands Region, the Commissioner for Police has assured me that these are being addressed as quickly as possible.” On that note, Tsiamalili commended community leaders in Hela Province who assisted police in apprehending the alleged perpetrator of the murder of a policeman in Tari. “This is an example of community leaders and elders working together to promote law and order and to prevent serious escalation when violent crimes take place. As we approach the new year, I encourage all community leaders to play a greater role in supporting the police in addressing serious law and order issues.” However, he added that sadly, the Christmas break saw an aircraft accident that resulted in the loss of five lives, including a serving police officer. “To the relatives and friends of those lost in this tragic incident, I extend my deepest condolences and heartfelt prayers.” Tsiamalili said as the nation prepares to celebrate its 50th Independence Anniversary, we must maintain a mindset that supports and encourages peaceful celebration and adherence to the law. “One area that was reported throughout the Christmas period that does require increased effort was unnecessary noise and inconvenience caused by excessive use of alcohol and the use of homebrew. Such behaviour causes disruption to local communities but also has broader consequences resulting from illness and death from alcohol poisoning, and violence caused by those who are inebriated and lack judgement.” Speaking on that, Tsiamlili referred to a landmark court ruling that resulted in a significant financial penalty for a perpetrator of noise pollution in Madang. “In that case, the Provincial Police Commander charged a suspect with breaching the Environmental Containment Act 1971 by emitting loud noise under Section 52(1) of the Act. This resulted in a K5,000 fine for the individual convicted. This case provides precedent, and the police will not hesitate to charge others for breaching the Environmental Containment Act where similar cases arise in the future. So, my advice to future offenders is to be warned – such activity will not be tolerated and will be prosecuted.” He also added that the use of firecrackers in the country is illegal. “The use of firecrackers will not be tolerated over the new year period, or at any other time. Offenders will be charged with being in possession of prohibited items, and will also, where noise issues arise, be charged under the Environmental Containment Act.” “As a nation that has matured, now is the time to ensure that we change our mindset. This means continued efforts to build strong communities, address issues such as youth crime, and promote safe and healthy celebrations. In 2025, our nation will be showcased to the world. Dignitaries and other guests from around the globe will join us as we mark Independence Day on the 16th of September 2025. As Papua New Guineans, the greatest gift that we can give to our Nation is to show the world what a peaceful and harmonious society we have become.” The police minister appealed to citizens to enter 2025 to make the 50th year the most peaceful on record. “As Minister for Police, I strongly believe that by working together and embracing our unique identity, we can ensure that we mark our 50th anniversary in a way that captures the true harmony and pride that is Papua New Guinea.” “As both Minister for Police and Regional Member for Bougainville, I wish all Papua New Guineans and my constituents in the Autonomous Region of Bougainville a safe and Happy New Year.” “Let us together unite to show the world how far our nation has come in 2025.”