Morobe Police

The landowner group of the Hidden Valley mine, Nakuwi Association presented three new vehicles to the law and order and justice sector of the Bulolo and Wau-Waria districts in Morobe Province.

A vehicle each was given to the Wau and Bulolo police stations, and to Morobe’s magisterial services.

Valued at K1.2 million, Nakuwi Chairman, Rex Mauri said Wau and Bulolo have always been labelled as “cowboy towns” due to the severe deterioration of infrastructure and services, compounded with the influx of alluvial miners.

Morobe police have reported six deaths so far, saying two old men, a child and three young men have been killed, while over 100 Kapin houses were set alight at Nami.

The Kapin, who are originally from Mumeng, in Bulolo District, have settled at Nami while the Finschhafen and a number of Madang people settled a few metres away at Gavman Giraun.

Provincial Police Commander (PPC) Superintendent Jacob Singura said K1million is allocated for security operations for Morobe. A big portion of this money will be used to cater for the allowances of the additional manpower from PNG Defence Force (PNGDF) and the PNG Correctional Services (PNGCS) as well as logistical support for police.

“Manpower and logistical support are our biggest challenge, especially for a province like Morobe with a big landmass and scattered population,” said Singura.

Provincial Police Commander (PPC) Superintendent Jacob Singura said K1million is allocated for security operations for Morobe. A big portion of this money will be used to cater for the allowances of the additional manpower from PNG Defence Force (PNGDF) and the PNG Correctional Services (PNGCS) as well as logistical support for police.

“Manpower and logistical support are our biggest challenge, especially for a province like Morobe with a big landmass and scattered population,” said Singura.

He said his province had been without sufficient police vehicles for almost a decade and the three new vehicles would be a relief to their policing efforts in the province.

"All our vehicles were purchased during the National Elections in 2002 and 2007. That was a long time ago. Most of those vehicles have gone off the road. We are walking on the streets and seeking help.

"Our prayers have been answered and I would simply like to thank our top management at the Police Headquarters," he said.