Commissioner of Police, David Manning, has commended the Provincial Police Command in Enga for its ongoing heightened arrest rate that has seen 79 arrests in the past two days, with many more expected.
Commissioner Manning in a statement said despite being given the opportunity to give up their weapons under an amnesty, some criminals still appear to believe they can get away with violence.
Related news: https://www.postcourier.com.pg/manning-lauds-enga-ppc-as-heightened-police-operations-yield-results/
“The Provincial Police Command in Enga has been doing everything expected of them during difficult times for the province, with ongoing ethnic conflict facilitated by the use of thousands of illegal weapons.
“I directed the Provincial Police Commander to focus on the basics — police patrols, arrests and reporting. I am pleased to see these fundamentals being implemented.
“During the 48 hours leading up to 11th March 2026, there were 79 arrests for a range of major and minor crimes.
“This included two arrests for attempted murder, three for grievous bodily harm, eight for willful and malicious damage, and two arrests for cybercrimes.
“I commend our police officers in the Enga Provincial Command, led by the recently appointed Provincial Police Commander, for the work they are doing to protect our communities.
“At the same time, it is disappointing to see criminals still trying their luck with weapons in this province that has seen too much violence.
“The Police Minister has given criminals a way to exit the cycle of violence by surrendering their firearms. It is disappointing that there are groups in these communities who think they can get away with violence.
“These communities in Enga are the frontline of our ongoing campaign to break apart domestic terrorism, gender-based violence, and other acts of criminal behavior.
“The Police Force is working to restore public confidence and to ensure people can exercise their right to live safely without fear of violence.
“Ongoing efforts will keep urging communities to surrender illegal weapons, but this must happen across all communities at the same time so that no side is left exposed.”
“The Provincial Police Command in Enga will continue to push on and make more arrests each and every day.
Related news: https://www.thepngsun.com/sir-john-to-launch-national-firearms-amnesty-and-guns-buy-back-policy-in-wabag/
“In Enga we have a Police Command that is strong and committed to removing thousands more weapons, protecting our most vulnerable communities, and restoring safety to the good people of the province.”