Madang police chief urges peaceful independence celebrations

The general public in Madang Province has been warned to celebrate the nation's 51st Independence Anniversary peacefully.

Provincial Police Commander, Superintendent Robert Baim issued the stern warning this week, as police begin to step up operation, leading up to September 16.

He has also urged residents to respect the occasion and allow the people of Madang to celebrate peacefully.

In his address to the people of Madang, Superintendent Baim emphasized that this milestone marks not only a national achievement, but also a reminder of the sacrifices made by our forefathers and the responsibility of today’s generation to protect the peace they fought for.

“I want people of Madang to celebrate this first year of the next fifty years freely and without violence or any kind of disturbances. Some of us won’t be around to see the next 50 years celebration, so let’s all celebrate with oneness.

"Let us remember that Independence is a gift, and we must guard it with unity, discipline, and respect,” said PPC Baim.

He has also called on all walks of life, including churches, schools, youth groups, community leaders, women’s associations, and business houses, to come together in one spirit of unity and to ensure the Independence anniversary is marked by good conduct and lawful behavior.

“Let us celebrate as one people. We should not allow misinformation, hate, or bad intentions to create problems during this special time. Our celebration must reflect the unity of Madang and the strength of Papua New Guinea as an independent nation,” Baim added.

He reminded the public that independence was achieved without any bloodshed, and therefore, citizens must honour that legacy by maintaining peace throughout this period.

“We got independence without any bloodshed. Let us all respect our forefathers who had very little education, but with vision and wisdom, they fought for our future and achieved what they set out to do. Their efforts should inspire us to behave responsibly and uphold the law,” he said.

PPC Baim said the police will not ignore any unlawful action and any group that disrupts public safety during the time of celebration will be dealt with severely.

He also confirmed that police operations to flush out OBT rumours will continue during Independence and beyond in order to ensure that misinformation does not spread and that public order is maintained.

“Police operations to address ongoing OBT rumours will continue into Independence celebration. Anyone who defies the laws, spreads harmful rumours, or encourages people to act unlawfully will be seriously dealt with.

"Police will not tolerate anyone who disobeys simple instructions,” he said.

Baim also urged all business houses and private sector partners to support police operations by cooperating with security arrangements, adhering to event rules, and helping to ensure that businesses contribute positively to a safe Independence celebration.

“I call on business houses to support police operations. Your support will help us maintain peace, protect lives and property, and ensure that the celebration brings unity and pride to Madang,” Superintendent Baim said