Police to beef up foot patrol

By JUNIOR UKAHA
LAE police foot beat unit will be beefed up to try to curb increasing petty crimes and street vending, says Met Supt Anthony Wagambie Jr, pictured.
He said this yesterday after receiving numerous complaints that petty criminals had resurfaced in the city disguised as street vendors.
“I have directed that there will be increased police presence at bus stops, Main Market and Eriku areas,” Wagambie said.
“We are engaging Mobile Squad 13, who have returned from Madang operations, to assist with manpower.
“Petty crimes and street sales are beginning to resurface.
“Police have cut down on major serious crimes but these everyday crimes are of concern.”
Wagambie called on the public in Lae to assist police combat petty crimes by reporting them to police and also to stop buying things from street vendors.
He said street vendors were contributing to petty crimes, filth and unhygienic conditions in the city.
“We need to flush them out,” Wagambie said.
“Police will arrest and charge these offenders.”
Wagambie said most of problems were caused by migrants coming from other provinces and settling in Lae.