Community policing approach is helping to curb the law and order problems in the Morobe Provincial capital, Lae.
Lae Metropolitan Superintendent Anthony Wagambie Jr, who was transferred from Madang to Lae said, quick response from his personnel in attending to complains had also brought back public confidence to the constabulary.
“This being my first year in office as Metsupt Lae, I can say we have gradually been able to reduce serious crimes in the city.
“Police response generally is much quicker when an incident occurs. I have instructed that all complaints be treated the same and with urgency, no matter if it is a minor complaint, it must be treated seriously, as the complainant is aggrieved and it is serious to him/her. Small things lead to big things. Every complaint must be attended to.
“We have been able to build good community networking, community leaders and members of the community have been working closely with police.
“We have been successful in many of our operations because of this support. I have always advocated that the community is our (Police) strength. Without community support, Police will not be able to achieve our tasks in ensuring a safe community,” Wagambie Jr said.
The Lae Police boss added that troubles are caused by a minority and majority of people who reside in the country’s second largest city are law abiding citizens.
“In turn, Police must also win the hearts and minds of our people. Police must have trust in police, only then will they give support,” Wagambie Jr said.
“Lae Police had been working very hard to win public confidence. We have not had so much bad publicity in the mainstream media and social media. Under my leadership, we strive to gain the respect and confidence.
“There have been incidences of police misconduct and have been dealt with accordingly by our Internal Investigations Unit, after being directed by my office. We have one of the most competent and effective Internal Investigations Unit, which are operated independently.”
Wagambie Jr said appealed to the Morobe Provincial Government to support the law and order sector because security is the great concern for business houses.