Peaceful New Year for Madang province, report police

MADANG province reported a quiet New Year following the launch and commissioning of the community policing and community neighbourhood watch programme last week.
Madang police, despite the shortage of manpower, were out
in full force after
heavy criticisms over
 the past months that
witnessed a rise in
crime.
A community leader and businessman said the Christmas and New Year period had been
relative peaceful and commended the police, the provincial government and the youths engaged in the Yumi laukautim Madang programme.
The programme involved more than 700 youths from the Madang urban local level
government area and Madang district who joined hands with the local regular police officers to ensure law and order was maintained in the festive season.
Although the youths had been blamed for most of the criminal activities, their turnout in the programme had helped reduce crime.
Madang provincial police commander
Chief Insp Anthony Wagambie Jr, who officiated at the launch, heaped praises on the youths for their bold stance for initiating the concept.
“This is very pleasing, especially in light of
the incidences in
recent months which
had seen the number
of youths having their good reputations tarnished.
“The youths have indicated that they are already fed up with the actions of a minority who try to continue to portray a negative image of all the youths.
Speaking to the youths, Chief Insp Wagambie said: “However, the task will not be easy because you (youths) will be going back to your communities and to your peers and change must begin
with you.
“By wearing the t-shirt, you have become part of us and I consider you my soldiers.
“Police can only do so much and we need to work together for the safety of our family members.
“Madang must regain its image as a beautiful and peaceful province.”
He added that the programme concept was on trial and its continuity would depend on the result.