Police to crack down on weapons in NCD and Central

Police in the National Capital District and Central Province have stepped up stop-and-search patrols as part of a crackdown on offensive weapons following a violent incident at the Rangeview City bus stop on Saturday.

Assistant Commissioner of Police Ben Turi has directed all police stations and support units to intensify patrols and searches, saying the measure is necessary to remove weapons from the streets.

Mr Turi has reminded officers that stop-and-search patrols are a fundamental part of daily police operations and must now be carried out more strictly.

He said officers on patrol must search taxis, buses, youths and street vendors and confiscate any offensive weapons found.

“Nearly every taxi and bus operator carries offensive weapons under their seats, and street vendors have them under their tables or somewhere beside them,” Mr Turi said.

He ordered police units to confiscate such weapons and make arrests where necessary, warning that security guards openly carrying offensive weapons will also face action.

“When you see security guards carrying such weapons openly, you must remove it as it is an offence. If they refuse, call for backup so that no one gets hurt,” he said.

Mr Turi stressed that police must act quickly to prevent lawlessness from becoming normal in the city.

“We are in charge as police officers to enforce the law, and every simple offence such as this that happens today must not become a norm, or we will lose the city to the hooligans,” he said.

Meanwhile, Police Commissioner David Manning has issued a strong warning that anyone carrying or using offensive weapons will be arrested.

The warning follows a violent clash at the Vision City bus stop on Saturday, March 14 involving street vendors, security guards, and wardens.

Police patrols responded swiftly after reports were received through the Royal Papua New Guinea Constabulary National Call Centre, leading to the arrest of four suspects.

“Bush knives were brandished and used. Swift police intervention saw arrests made and prevented escalation of this unacceptable incident,” Mr Manning said.

One man sustained minor leg injuries and received medical treatment, while several individuals arrested will face court.

Mr Manning said offensive weapons have no place in communities or city areas.

“Any person who carries or uses an offensive weapon, such as a bush knife, will be arrested. Police will not tolerate violence from vendors or illegal conduct by security guards,” he said.

The Commissioner added that complaints about unprofessional conduct by security guards have been referred to the Security Industries Association, urging companies to ensure their guards follow proper training and codes of conduct.

Police have since increased foot patrols and searches across the city and are urging the public to report anyone seen carrying offensive weapons.

“We will not hesitate to arrest anyone suspected of carrying an offensive weapon. Offensive weapons have no place on our streets,” Mr Manning said.