600kg drug exhibits destroyed

More than 600 kilograms of cannabis and counterfeit cigarette exhibits confiscated by the National Drug and Vice Squad were destroyed outside Port Moresby yesterday.

These illegal drugs had been seized between 2022 and 2025.

Director Drugs and Vice, Joel Simatab, Deputy Commissioner of Police Special Operations, Donald Yamasombi, NDVS members, Waigani Court House Sheriff, National Censorship Office and the media were on hand to witness the destruction.

These illegal drugs have been confiscated from users and smugglers in the National Capital District, Central, and Gulf provinces.

According to the National Drug and Vice Squad officer in Charge, Detective Sergeant Thomas Moiyang, the successful confiscation of these drugs is a result of teamwork and collaboration.

He said there are more illegal drugs in the country today compared to the past, and they are a growing threat to the nation's future.

It requires collective efforts from all relevant agencies to combat this increasing challenge confronting the nation.

Whilst destroying the drugs, Deputy Commissioner of Police Special Operations, Donald Yamasombi commended the NDV squad for their tireless efforts in confiscating these drugs.

He says this continues to be a big challenge for the Royal Papua New Guinea Constabulary.

DCP Yamasombi noted that the RPNGC has yet to build a proper incineration center to destroy illicit drugs, as it is a health hazard when drugs are destroyed in the open air.

Whilst these drug exhibits are from the three provinces, NDV squads in other provinces are also working hard to confiscate and control the use of illegal drugs in their respective commands.

Meanwhile, anyone caught in possession of illegal drugs and controlled substances will be penalized under the Dangerous Drugs Act 2021 and the Controlled Substances Act 2021.