Increase in vehicle theft a concern

By Alphonse Porau
A MAGISTRATE has raised his concern over the increase in the number of vehicle thefts in Port Moresby.
Waigani Committal Court Magistrate Cosmas Bidar, pictured, raised his concern when referring Roy Nupi, 31, of Kupin village in Enga to the National Court on charges of armed robbery and unlawful use of a motor vehicle.
Bidar told Nupi that criminals were now following people in vehicles and holding them up.
He said this was a serious offence because weapons were being used. And bail for offenders can only be granted by the National Court, he added.
He read the charges to Nupi and adjourned the matter to May 24 for mention.
The court heard that Nupi and accomplices followed a man who was driving to Five-Mile.
They allegedly stopped him and took the vehicle which had three mobile phones and a laptop.
The court heard the vehicle was recovered by police.
A dawn raid was conducted at the Hohola Banana block where Nupi was arrested.
He has been remanded in custody to await a court sitting on May 24.