Kerema police are preparing for the 2017 National Elections for the province with focus on security along its border with neighbouring provinces.
The Kerema Police Station Commander; Thomas Akasiki mentioned this after lead up operations toward the election starting this month.
Akasiki said there has never been problems in the past elections but for this year alone; they are focused on providing security along its borders in the Kikori District and the mountain regions of Kotidanga District because these are hot spots for illegal firearms and drug smuggling.
"Our main concern will be Ihu, Kikori, Baimuru and rest of the areas up in the mountains of Gulf to stop any smuggling of drug and firearms along the border so security for the Elections in the province is not compromised, "said Akasiki.
He also said police manpower of 26 will be boosted by another 30 officers coming from NCD this month. Their deployment for the National Elections have been funded by the Electoral Commission.
Police have already begun small operations along the Kerema-Malalaua road by setting up road blocks for point checks to curb down on illegal smuggling of drugs and firearms.
At the same time police have urged the people of Gulf Province, especially intending candidates and supporters to conduct their campaigns peacefully throughout the election period starting this month.
Picture: Kerema town quiet after police operation.