By Vasinatta Yama – EMTV News, Mt Hagen
More than 15 home-made guns and two self-loading rifles were destroyed in Enga Province recently.
Raw marijuana plants and home-brew machines were also destroyed by police and PNG Defense Force.
It happened during the launching of the Law and Order, Sorcery Abuse, Drug, Homebrew and Tribal Warfare Campaign.
Enga Province has been making headline news for many wrong reasons, in the last five years.
Few such as tribal fights, election-related violence and killings, sorcery accusations and few others.
As the new Provincial Police Commander for Enga Province, Chief Superintendent Joseph Tondop saw the need to address it.
With the support from churches, NGO’s and Enga Provincial Government, Tondop launched the campaign to address all sorts of violence and law and order issues in the province.
It is an approach taken to do massive awareness and to inform Engans to take ownership of law and order.
PPC Tondop recommended for the implementation of not allowing compensation in the province.
And also for hospitals not to treat any patient coming from a battlefield.
Enga District Court currently has over 700 welfare cases pending.
The provincial community development office, police and the magisterial services will partner to spread awareness for parents to know their children’s rights and be familiar with the Lukautim Pikinini Act.
Meanwhile, Enga Governor, Sir Peter Ipatas said the Provincial Government is very supportive in the campaign.
Sir Peter said at least some measures are taken to manage law and order in the province, so that development can reach the rural population.
Sir Peter said policing will be effective when police take ownership to enforce law.
Sir Peter said this will give assurance to communities to respect the law.
