Police record increase in armed robberies, hold-ups

 By ABIGAIL PHOEBE

POLICE in East New Britain have noticed a slight increase in serious crimes, especially armed robberies since last month.

Provincial police commander Superintendent Anthony Wagambie said the latest armed robbery was at a hotel in Kokopo.

“About seven suspects, including a young lady, went into the hotel and held up staff at the outside bar and tried to make off with the safe,” Wagambie said.

He said the robbers were disturbed by officers from the Guard Dog Security.

“Police have made one arrest and investigations are continuing,” he said.

Wagambie said there were three attempted hold-ups, all of which were foiled. 

“This recent increase may be attributed to a number of escapees from Kerevat jail now in the community,” he said.

He said police investigations were hindered by the lack of transport because of a lack of fuel.

“Police need fuel to operate. We need to attend to complaints, do patrols and respond to incidents,” he said.

“We received our fuel supply from police headquarters last week but this will not last for more than a week as the allocation is not enough for the workload and number of vehicles in the province.”

Wagambie said the serious crimes committed were in the vicinity of Kokopo town and surrounding villages. 

“I call upon all members of the public to be vigilant when moving about, especially at night,” Wagambie said.

“All security firms have a duty to assist police in monitoring areas where they are assigned to. 

“If anyone sees suspicious movement or activities they must report it to police.”