Text message warns Madang public of armed men roaming in police uniforms

The general public in Madang town have been on high alert since Wednesday after a text message about armed men in police uniforms went viral.

The text on April 13 read: “Take note of the following vehicles MAF 825 ten-seater; MAF 504(five-door) and MAF 957 ten–seater.”

The message further read: “Men armed, dressed in police uniforms. Please pass the message around and contact police if these cars are spotted.”

Madang residents are now on full alert following the text message following recent ethnic clashes between the Western Highlanders and the Sepiks. Although the situation has now cooled down, there is fear and tension in the air amongst Madang town residents. 

Police in Madang, when contacted, confirmed receiving reports of the text message and are also on their toes.

Police presence in Madang has been beefed up with the deployment of Mobile Squad units from Lae and Bulolo for the 30-day police operation following the ethnic clash between the Sepiks and Western Highlanders last Saturday.

Picture: Madang town aerial view

Author: 
James G. Kila