Police sweep PMVs for bush knives

Police in the National Capital District and Central Province have launched a major enforcement operation targeting offensive weapons and illegal items on public motor vehicles [PMVs].

The operation, which commenced this morning, saw units conducting random stop-and-search operations on buses, taxis, and suspicious private vehicles at major transit hubs across Port Moresby.

Officers reportedly confiscated more than 20 offensive weapons, including bush knives, during the first few hours of the exercise.

The operation follows a direct order from Acting Assistant Commissioner of Police [NCD/Central] Benjamin Turi, who instructed all units to intercept vehicles suspected of transporting weapons used in public violence.

ACP Turi said the directive was a response to an increase in public altercations involving blades, which have become a significant threat to the safety of city residents.

"There have been many instances where residents witnessed people fighting with bush knives in public places," Turi said.

The morning’s activities were led by NCD/Central Reservist Coordinator Chief Inspector Ruben Giusu at the Vision City bus stop. Chief Inspector Giusu commended his officers for the seizures and challenged all station commanders to replicate the efforts in their respective zones.

"People are carrying bush knives and other weapons openly in public places," Giusu said.

The awareness campaign would continue across all stations in the command.

NCD Metropolitan Superintendent Warrick Simatab supported the move, urging all regular police officers to take personal responsibility for monitoring the public transport operating in their sectors.

"Officers should know each vehicle operating in their areas by heart," Supt Simatab said. "When a vehicle causes an accident, the officers should already know who the owner is."

He further warned PMV and taxi owners to ensure their vehicles are roadworthy and that their crews are operating within the law.

Police have advised the public and transport operators that no weapons are permitted inside vehicles and that random searches will continue indefinitely to ensure public safety.