The police in Mt. Hagen, Western Highlands Province (WHP), have arrested a couple of suspects involved in the sale of counterfeit cigarettes. The arrests occurred at an outskirt market in Top Town, just outside Hagen town, where authorities apprehended individuals engaged in the illegal trade. The case took a dramatic turn when the suspects attempted to bribe the arresting officer with a substantial sum of K2000. However, their attempts were turned down by the arresting officer, leading to further charges against them. Last week, law enforcement officers in Mt. Hagen made a breakthrough in combating the illegal sale of counterfeit cigarettes. Based on information gathered by British American Tobacco (BAT), the police targeted a market in the outskirts of the city, within New Town. There, they apprehended a group of suspects engaged in selling counterfeit cigarettes. Upon bringing the suspects to the police station for processing, two individuals associated with the arrested suspects attempted to bribe the arresting officer with K2000 in exchange for the release of the detainees. However, their bribery attempts quickly turned into arrest and subsequent charges. Among the suspects taken into custody, one was found in possession of exhibits directly linking him to the sale of counterfeit cigarettes. The suspects were later released on bail but are now awaiting their court appearance in the Mt. Hagen District Court. The investigation into the case continues, with authorities focusing on uncovering the extent of the counterfeit cigarette trade in the region. Both the sale of counterfeit products and the attempted bribery represent serious offenses under Papua New Guinea's legal framework. Provincial Police Commander (PPC) John Sagom told PNG HAUSBUNG that he will not tolerate the selling of illegal substances or bribery, and all will be held accountable for their actions. “Law enforcement officials are committed to ensuring that those responsible are held accountable for their actions.”