The eviction of illegal squatters from 9-Mile Bush Wara in Port Moresby began today without incident. The National Capital District and Central Provinces police, led by Assistant Commissioner Peter Guinness, reported a peaceful and cooperative atmosphere as the first day of the court-ordered eviction took effect. Police had prepared for potential confrontation today, but ACP Guinness commended both the officers and the settlers for their cooperation. "I want to thank my police officers and the sheriff officers for a well-coordinated awareness program that led to the first day of eviction being carried out peacefully." "The public must understand that police presence on-site was to execute the court order. " "We have families there too, but we have no choice but to do our mandated duty. " "The 120-day grace period was enough time for everyone to move out as per the court order." The eviction, ordered by the Waigani National Court, follows a 120-day grace period granted to the squatters to vacate the land owned by Nambawan Super Limited (NSL). The court issued Writs of Possession on March 12, 2024, and the final day for voluntary departure was July 10, 2024. Despite the time given, some residents were still in the process of removing their homes and possessions as the eviction commenced. According to ACP Guinness, most of the houses on the three portions of land—2156, 2157, and 2159—had already been removed. Those still in the process were urged to expedite their efforts to avoid property damage. "The squatters who were making an attempt to remove their properties were told not to be damaged but to give them time to remove it while the machines moved to other locations.” The police and sheriff officers conducted extensive awareness campaigns leading up to the eviction, informing the settlers of the impending action and their need to relocate. These efforts ensured that the squatters were well-informed and contributed to the smooth execution of the eviction. The Supreme Court had dismissed an appeal by the squatters on June 26, reinforcing the validity of the March 12 court order and enabling today's actions. ACP Guinness stressed the importance of adhering to legal processes and learning from this experience. He thanked those who complied with the court order and removed their houses and properties voluntarily, emphasizing that the eviction serves as a reminder of the importance of following the law.