By dividing Port Moresby into zones, the Royal PNG Constabulary expects to improve police visibility as well as improve their response time.
The police commissioner outlined their intention during the recent launch of the NCD Policing Initiative.
The NCD Policing Initiative is all about going back to basics where supervision, command and control and accountability are the key aspects.
Dividing the city into three operational zones will ensure manpower and resources are identified and allocated to these newly-demarcated police operational boundaries.
During the launch early this month, Police Commissioner Gari Baki stressed on effective policing services.
“The various zone superintendents are expected to do regular daily inspections of the police stations within their command,” he stated. “Attendance records are to be checked on a daily basis. Neatness is expected as well too from all members.
“Occurrence book to be checked each day and holding cells inspected on a daily basis. I read your occurrence book every day from my office as soon as I get in.”
Baki said police officers who have locked members of the public without charging them must be dealt with, adding the practice of locking people up before collating evidence needs to stop.
“In terms of visibility, I expect more presence on foot patrol on a daily basis,” Baki stated. “Police must be present in hotspots within the city such as Koki, Two-Mile bus stop, Tabari Place and Gordon’s Market, just to name a few.
“Loiterers and street vendors must be removed forthwith. People are being robbed and vehicles broken into in Boroko. Police station commanders must now take corrective actions.
“As station commanders, you need to interact with the public in your area of operations.”
Baki urged commanders to know and understand their command to be able to provide the level of policing services required by the people.