East Sepik police partner with NMSA to strengthen maritime safety

East Sepik Police have ventured into a partnership with the National Maritime Safety Authority [NMSA], to strengthen maritime safety across the province.

Provincial Police Commander, Superintendent Christopher Tamari has commended the joint commitment as East Sepik, being a maritime province, relies heavily on safe and secure waterways for transport, trade, and community connection.

“Water Police is an important part of policing, especially in a maritime province such as East Sepik,” Tamari told NBC News.

PPC Tamari said Water Police will play a crucial role to ensure the partnership works effectively.

He confirmed that the Wewak District Development Authority is currently constructing a new police base at Kairiru Island, just off the coast of Wewak. The facility will serve as the main operational base for the East Sepik Water Police, enabling regular patrols and coordinated maritime operations.

Tamari said plans are also being considered to establish another base, potentially at Watam or Maus Wara Kopar, to strengthen surveillance along the Sepik River and between Madang and East Sepik.

This move comes in response to the high incidences of sea and water piracy reported in the area, which have posed serious threats to passenger safety, trade, and community livelihoods. The establishment of these bases is expected to enhance law enforcement presence on the waters, improve response times to emergencies, and support ongoing awareness campaigns on small craft safety under the Small Craft Act 2011.

With these developments, Superintendent Tamari reaffirmed the Police’s commitment to working closely with NMSA to ensure safer waters for all communities in East Sepik.