Police seek help in effort to deal with Boroko hooligans

Police have warned the public to be aware of hooligans harassing people at the Boroko area in Port Moresby.
Boroko station commander Chief Inspector James Wafihuambu said police did not have the manpower to post officers in all the areas in Boroko.
“We are aware of those incidents and do foot patrols there and all around to the Boroko bus stop,” Wafihuambu said.
He said police could not be everywhere so he urged the public to take responsibility and precautions, and help police identify offenders.
“The thefts and harassments at Boroko, especially at Tabari Places, is an ongoing issue,” he said.
“We do foot patrols there but it happens right after we leave one area and walk to the next.”
Wafihuambu said thugs came in groups and had some members look out for police while others stole.
“If you recognise a face, let us know or come with a photograph so we can keep an eye on people who go around stealing,” he said.
“Take precautions and look after yourself. If you leave the car take your valuables with you or get someone to be in the car.”
He said in the ’80s police had up to 90 men in a shift “and the only crime was break and enter, but today we have a wide range of offences from pickpockets to car thefts’’.
“We have eight officers on a normal shift, that’s not enough because in a day, one or two may not turn up because they are sick or for other personal reasons,” he said.
“We don’t have enough officers on the ground and when we delegate tasks we see that we are short of manpower to patrol all of Boroko area.
“I appeal to the public to be aware and cooperate with the police.”