The Member for Rai Coast, Kessy Sawang, has announced a K50,000 allocation to strengthen police and security operations across the district during Papua New Guinea’s 50th Independence celebrations. The funds will be distributed among police units and local level governments (LLGs) to maintain peace, particularly in areas with security concerns. “Under my leadership, we have allocated K50,000 to the police and security,” Sawang said. “Of this, K10,000 will go to Saidor police, K10,000 to Ileg police in Astrolabe Bay LLG, K10,000 to Ramu Sugar police, K10,000 to Nayudo LLG, and K10,000 to support Basamuk water patrols addressing sea piracy.” The patrol boat between Basamuk and Madang town is a key focus. Sawang noted that full-time patrols will protect coastal communities from piracy and ensure safe passage. The funding will also support enforcement of the district’s Good District Local Policies (GDLP) and security bylaws during the four-day Independence program from September 13–16. “Our priority is to make sure communities are safe and people can celebrate freely. This is a proactive step to prevent crime,” Sawang said. She urged the public to cooperate with security forces during the milestone celebrations.