Law, order concerns

Escalating law-and-order problems in Mt Hagen are a direct result of authorities aligning themselves with local and national politicians.
Heads of authorities such as the Royal PNG Constabulary in Western Highlands, Hagen Urban Local Level Government Council and the Mt Hagen City Authority are seen to be siding with politicians, thereby complicating the work of their innocent staff.
The police force, however, has made significant changes to its command.
The city has welcomed the police hierarchy’s decision to have the provincial police commander (PPC) relocated and the newly-established Western End Command position filled by a very-competent officer.
Police officers’ morale was at an all-time low: They became so complacent and many illegal activities transpired within the city when the previous commander was at the helm.
It has been so difficult to change the attitudes and mindsets of uneducated immigrants and locals who live in squatter settlements within and around the city’s periphery and have continuously been involved in petty crimes like bag snatching, pick pocketing, etc.
Due to lack of effective policing, selling of drugs and home brew and consumption of these illegal substances have taken a toll right in the heart of the city: Mushrooming of beer outlets, very loud music, and unrestricted selling hours in residential areas right across the city has caused so many unreported disturbances/crimes.
Unfortunately, those in authority have been so ignorant. Leadership is lacking.
It has been very difficult and challenging to get politicians to play a pivotal role in behavioural change communication, therefore, the onus is now on police.
The police force has the capacity to improve on its performances.
It just needs the drive and push and then, only then, will Mt Hagen’s petty crimes rate be reduced.
The Hagen Urban LLG Council and the Mt Hagen City Authority are two different bodies tasked with similar responsibilities.
The former’s establishment is desired by the incumbent Governor and the latter being the Hagen Open MP’s brainchild.
Police in the province should be neutral and clamp down on all of illegal activities that are happening in the city.

P Marox