Address law, order issues in Siassi

I AM concerned that relevant authorities have failed to address the and order issues on Siassi Island.
The lack of police presence and deteriorating infrastructures in the district has become a conduit for opportunistic crimes and escalating law and order issues.
There are reports of drug and alcohol abuse among youths leading to escalating incidence of threats, sexual abuse, rape, tribal fights, breaking in and stealing and arm hold-ups.
A few murder cases remain unattended by police.
Many villagers have fled into the bushes.
Some have sought refuge with families and relatives in the neighbouring villages.
Others have fled into Lae for safety.
People aren’t enjoying their normal livelihood as it used to be in the past. They are in fear of being attacked by perpetrators.
I appeal to leaders in the Morobe government to address the critical law and order issues in the district.
I extend the call to the Police Minister William Onglo and the Police Commissioner David Manning to immediately restore police presence on the island.
We need an immediate restoration and refurbishment of the defunct Bunsil government station and the infrastructures for redeployment of public servants, including police officers to monitor and contain the situation.
To be efficient and effective, we need a holistic approach and cooperation between all responsible stakeholders.
We need a better policing strategy with adequate funding and resources that can achieve the outcome.
I call on Tewai-Siassi MP Dr Kobby Bomareo and Morobe Governor Ginson Saonu to help the people in providing the much-needed leadership and funding to stop the escalating law and order situation and restore peace.

Daniel Aigal, Via email