Madang police intensify operations to curb highway robberies and improve public safety

The Royal Papua New Guinea Constabulary (RPNGC) in Madang Province is ramping up its security efforts along the Madang–Ramu Highway in response to a spike in armed robberies and related criminal activities that have threatened the safety of travelers and local communities.

Provincial Police Commander (PPC) for Madang, Acting Superintendent Robert Baim, announced that police are deploying additional personnel to identified hotspots, particularly the stretch between Usino Junction and Naru, which has been flagged as a high-risk zone for criminal operations.

“Despite ongoing challenges with limited resources, our officers remain committed to restoring peace and ensuring public safety,” said PPC Baim.

“We are implementing new tactical approaches and strengthening our collaboration with local communities to effectively combat these crimes.”

Among the strategies being rolled out are increased highway patrols, permanent police presence at key checkpoints—including the strategic Mano Quarantine Checkpoint—and plans to incorporate surveillance technology and communication systems to better monitor and respond to criminal activity.

PPC Baim stressed that while law enforcement is stepping up its response, community cooperation is crucial in the fight against organized highway crime.

“Criminals are using mobile phones and other digital tools to evade capture by tracking our patrols and coordinating ambushes in real time,” he said.

“We need community members to be our eyes and ears. Public vigilance and immediate reporting of suspicious behavior are vital to disrupting these criminal networks.”

The Madang police urge all residents, motorists, and travelers to support ongoing policing efforts by reporting any unlawful or suspicious activity to the nearest police station or officer.