Tight security in Lae

By JUNIOR UKAHA
SECURITY will be tight in Lae as it hosts for the first time the Hunters in an Intrust Super Cup match.
Metropolitan Superintendent Anthony Wagambie Junior told The National yesterday that police officers and soldiers would be providing security at the Lae Rugby League Oval.
The Hunters take on the North Devils after the Digicel Cup clash between the Lae Snax Tigers and the Enga Mioks.
More than 7000 people are expected to watch the match on Sunday. People from the Highlands provinces began arriving in Lae from Monday, sparking the security concerns.
“Police will be on full alert to ensure that this event goes through without disruption and problems,” Wagambie said.
“We have liaised with Defence Force at Igam. It will have a platoon deployed to assist with crowd and perimeter control.”
Wagambie said it would be the first time the Hunters played a Queensland Intrust Cup match in Lae.
“It is an opportunity for people living out of Port Moresby to have a glimpse of their team.
“We expect a massive turnout of people coming in not only from Lae but other parts of Morobe and the Highlands provinces as well,” he said.
“I appeal to everyone to be on their best behaviour as this is an opportunity for us to show that we are able to host such events. If we are able to prove that we can behave, there will be possibility of future games being hosted here in Lae and even other provinces.”
Wagambie said weapons, alcohol, marijuana and illegal substances were banned. And those found to be drunk will be removed from the oval.
“The police and army will be deployed among the spectators. Anyone found to be disorderly will be immediately ejected from the venue,” Wagambie said.
“People without tickets will be kept away to avoid previous incidents of stone-throwing and gate-crashing. We will not allow individuals to spoil this event. Women and children should be allowed to go and enjoy the game.”