Toll free number lifts operations for Lae police

The recent introduction of the Police Emergency Toll Free number, to the Lae Metro Police, has proven to be a success says the Lae Metropolitan Superintendent Commander, Anthony Wagambi jnr.

It has allowed the public to easily reach police; considering the ongoing obstacle where emergency numbers to reach police are often never answered.

Wagambi said he has made certain that the radio operations room where all police operations is coordinated from is staffed 24 hours a day with full strength of four operators. 

However this platform does not go without its mishaps, like a number of prank calls being experienced on a daily basis.

Wagambie warns however that the prank numbers are all listed and it is only a matter of time when all SIM cards are registered that the Lae police will be able to catch those offenders. 

Meantime, the Met Sup has acknowledged Digicel PNG for providing this service, which serves the whole community adding that, it comes at great cost to the company but they have done great with their community partnership with the police in fighting crime in Lae. 

This service also serves Rural Morobe in reporting crimes, major incidents and emergencies. Other nearby provinces also call in when there is something to report on. 

“With the introduction of the toll free number by Digicel PNG, we have seen an increase in workload by Police. 

“More people are reporting incidences, ranging from minor incidences like drunk and disorderly to major incidences. 

“However at times calls are missed due to the line being very busy; the phone is at most times busy. 

“This matter has been brought to the attention of the Digicel Momase regional office, and they are hopeful that an additional phone will be supplied to address this minor issue” Wagambie says.

In the meantime, the Digicel Momase regional manager, Brian Malone has confirmed that a second extension will be set up that can help cater for congested traffic from calls that are coming into the toll free line. 

Author: 
Imelda Wavik