Police in Western Highlands Province (WHP) have reported no major disruptions within the last two weeks of the festive operation period, something which the Provincial Police Commander (PPC), Superintendent John Sagom, said was attributed to the leadership portrayed by the community leaders.
While operations for the festive season have kicked off in many parts of the country, operations for WHP have been relatively smooth apart from the minor issues, such as petty crimes and other minor offences. Sagom stated that he is grateful for the support from the community leaders and is hoping that they can continue this positive partnership.
“I would like to thank the leaders of the communities in the city (Mt. Hagen) for their leadership and taking the initiative to address issues at their level before they escalate into bigger issues.”
Sagom was quite content with the operations so far, which saw police step up presence at key points to monitor malicious or suspicious activities and at the same time give assurance to the people and stake holders that they are in safe hands.
The PPC also thanked business houses for their support in the operations, especially Tininga Limited.
Also, I am grateful for the support from the business houses here in the province, and I cannot thank the PNG Defense Force enough for their continuous support in handling issues. I know they are in Hagen City for their own reasons, but I am grateful for their support when a callout is issued, they are ready always to support us.”
For this festive period in the WHP, police are looking to crack down on drunk commuters as they set up roadblocks on the main roads leading into the city. Sagom said he is looking to make sure that the main roads and streets remained free from people driving under the influence of alcohol.
Sagom also spoke to the provincial government to address this issue and in the coming days, a ban on alcohol will be issued in the lead up to Christmas.
Meanwhile, investigations into the suspicious murder that occurred over two weeks ago is progressing as the Criminal Investigation Division (CID) in the city come up with evidence to determine the facts surrounding the crime committed.
PPC Sagom also stated that currently investigators are still searching to find out more information before compilation a submission.
He added that a lot has happened during the course of the investigations and the information needs to be accurate, so they can apprehend the suspect and let justice take its course.