Police worried at surge in car jacking

The first week of October has recorded at least one car jacking and one grievous body harm or wounding report per day in Port Moresby.

According to daily crime reports provided by the Royal PNG Constabulary, the first eight days of October recorded a total of 41 crimes reported to police.

Armed robbery and stolen motor vehicles, stealing, and grievous body harm and wounding top the tally in sequence.

The following table details the crimes reported to police from October 01st – 08th.

Crime

Cases reported

Stolen Motor Vehicle

9

Stealing (Including break & enter)

9

Grievous Bodily Harm

8

Armed Robbery

5

Rape & Sexual Penetration

4

Misappropriation & Fraud

2

Murder

1

Drowning

1

Shoot-out

1

Traffic Accident

1

 

 

Total

41 reported crimes

Residents in Port Moresby have raised concern over the increase in random car jackings.

According to the daily crime reports criminals engaged in car jacking are not only targeting smaller lighter vehicles such as sedans, but also much bigger vehicles such as double cab utilities, Landcruisers, and even buses.

Stealing has also increased with break and entering of homes and vehicles a standout type of crime.

Grievous body harm and wounding also remains at the top with a few of the incidents shown to be alcohol related.

Police Commissioner Gari Baki recently re-instated the Police Reserve Unit in a move to combat crime in the city.

With the increasing criminal activities, strong police manpower and presence is crucial in curbing potential criminal acts.

Author: 
Cedric Patjole