Strengthening Security for Port Moresby’s 50th Anniversary and Future

The leadership of the Municipal Government of Port Moresby has made a bold commitment to enhance security throughout the city in preparation for the upcoming 50th Anniversary celebrations and beyond. This resolution arose from the inaugural meeting held on June 10th, following the appointments of ACP Ben Turi and NCD Metropolitan Superintendent Warrick Simitap.

Hosted by Governor Hon. Powes Parkop, the meeting included key participants such as ACP Turi, Metropolitan Superintendent Simitap, City Manager Mr. Ravu Frank, Deputy City Manager Ms. Edith Laufa, and other Executive Management members of the National Capital District Commission (NCDC).

The focus of this meeting was to strategize the city’s preparations for the Anniversary celebrations leading up to September, emphasizing a coordinated effort between the police and NCDC to ensure the highest levels of security for both residents and visitors. Both organizations have concurred that the safety of the city must remain paramount and are committed to achieving this objective together.

Key collaborative discussions included:

1: Accelerating the implementation of the CCTV system throughout the city.

2: Establishing regular roadblocks, particularly on weekends, to combat alcohol abuse, including drink driving, and taking proactive measures to address this issue in communities.

3: Strengthening and enhancing the effectiveness and sustainability of the City Warden and Port Moresby City Watch initiatives to ensure safety in public spaces.

d) Addressing ethnic conflicts as a priority while awaiting the passing of the Vagrancy Act.

4: Developing and executing a strategy to tackle homelessness and loitering, particularly at night.

5: Rolling out comprehensive strategies to reduce and eliminate Gender-Based Violence in the city, ensuring the arrest and prosecution of perpetrators and the implementation of preventive measures.

6: Halting the construction of new settlements and the relocation of existing ones within the city center.

7: Supporting and expanding the efforts of Port Moresby City Watch to curb illegal vending.

8: Constructing new police stations, including the Boroko Police Station.

Governor Parkop also announced that the NCDC will resume its support for the police through the 'Kina for Kina' program, which includes the provision of vehicles and ongoing monthly fuel support. Additionally, the relocation of Gordons Police Barracks and the construction of a dedicated NCD Police Barracks are in the pipeline.

Further details regarding these strategies, including opportunities for public involvement and participation, will be released once finalized.