In East New Britain, around 200 youths, including juveniles, voluntarily surrendered their weapons in a significant ceremony held at Sinivit LLG grounds in Pomio District on Saturday, November 9. The weapons were mostly homemade, alongside a few factory-made bullets. Additionally, wards from Inland Baining surrendered home-brewing equipment and promised to stop growing and consuming marijuana. This event followed a call made by Pomio MP and Health Minister, Elias Kapavore at Warangoi Secondary School a week prior. Minister Kapavore had urged council/ward members from the LLG’s 18 wards to address the rising law and order issues in the area and encouraged youths to surrender their weapons. In his speech, Kapavore assured attendees - these youths - that no arrests would be made for those who came forward willingly. Minister Kapavore also mentioned the recently endorsed Anti-Terrorism Act by the National Executive Council (NEC). “With this law in place, the police force will have additional powers and upgraded equipment to track down criminals." "But we don’t want anything bad happening to our children in Sinivit LLG, and that’s why we are here for this program,” he said. Kapavore expressed his hope for peace during the upcoming festive season and reminded youths that those disrupting the community would face consequences. “There’s a reason why you did not die within the hour you were born; this is because God has a plan for you!" After the surrender, the youths provided their basic information through a formal process, signing agreements to participate in government-supported programs. Minister Kapavore expressed optimism, saying, “We will see how we can work together to build Sinivit LLG back to a good society, to have peace, order, and harmony.” Adding to this, East New Britain Governor, Michael Marum urged local stakeholders, including parents, to actively support the youths. He cautioned parents, saying, “One of the key issues raised by youths from Rieit ward is the lack of parental care." "Parents, when you neglect your children and they get into such criminal activities and end up in trouble, you are the very ones that will come crying and begging for their lives - so play your part at home.” Also witnessing the surrender was Sinivit LLG President and Deputy Governor for East New Britain, Boniface Gerep, and local police. Meanwhile, as a follow up, a reconciliation program has been set for December 1st.