A lot of fear and animosity has risen among the general public in Lae, indicating the possibility of the situation getting worse from what had transpired in Port Moresby.
Lae police have mounted special operations throughout the city to deter opportunists from taking advantage of the current situation. This is also to ensure that normalcy is maintained for the general population of Lae City.
Metropolitan Superintendent Anthony Wagambie Jnr commends the University of Technology student leaders and student body for adhering to calls to remain calm. Dialogue is still continuing to make sure that there is no disruption to daily activities in the city.
Wagambie Jnr dispelled rumours about a mass rioting by youths as well as destruction of government property. He has assured the Lae public and residents that police are out in full force and monitoring all areas.
He stresses that opportunists must not use Unitech as a cover to issue unnecessary threats as this will only demean the reputation of the university student leaders and the student body. All students have remained on campus and these rumours are being orchestrated by outsiders to bring fear to the larger population.
“Police have a duty to maintain public order and cooperation is not only needed from the students but the general public as well. My suburban police station commanders are in contact with their communities as a requirement. They will be on special operations to bring back confidence so that daily activities are not disrupted in any way,” Wagambie Jnr stated.
“I encourage all services, schools and business to continue as normal in Lae City as the police are out and about to ensure safety and order.”