The Rabaul District Administration officially opened two new police duplexes this week at the Kurakakaul barracks, located at the district headquarters along the North Coast Road in East New Britain province.
The new accommodation aims to address the critical issue of inadequate housing for local police personnel.
The two three-bedroom duplexes were successfully completed last month by Paveks Construction Limited and Last-Born Enterprise Limited at a total cost of over K1.2 million, which included fencing works.
The project was co-funded under the District Infrastructure and Law and Order program through the Provincial Services Improvement Programs (PSIP) and District Services Improvement Programs (DSIP).
Speaking at the commissioning ceremony, District Administrator Freddy Lemeki highlighted the project's timely nature.
“This is a timely project as our police personnel are being faced with inadequate housing and other related accommodation issues affecting their overall welfare.”
He added that the duplexes will provide a much-needed home for officers and their families, which in turn will enhance their performance for effective policing.
The new buildings will complement the existing police staff house, which currently accommodates the Rabaul Police Station Commander.
Mr. Lemeki also urged families and nearby communities to be responsible and look after the new buildings.
Meanwhile, Rabaul Police Station Commander Chief Sergeant John Hapot, who also witnessed the ceremony, thanked the district social sector and administration for their continuous support.
“With the recent rise in law-and-order issues in Rabaul and nearby villages, the project will help beef up our manpower by immediately responding to issues in the nearby communities.”
The completion of the two duplexes is part of a broader effort to improve the district's law and order infrastructure.
Moreover, they will stand alongside the newly refurbished district courthouse and the Seif Haus, both located at the Kurakakaul district headquarters.
The administration also announced plans to build similar police duplexes in the future to cater for more police officers.
