Police in Madang have moved to calm fears over reports that members of Operation Brukim Tulait have entered the province.
Provincial police commander Superintendent Robert Baim said there was no confirmed evidence of an OBT presence in Madang.
He said police were investigating reports and had found that local young criminals could be using the OBT name to frighten communities.
“It’s only a speculation. People out of fear are pressing the panic button. They should not do that,” Baim said.
Police have arrested a woman accused of harbouring suspected criminals.
Baim warned that people who shelter criminals will also face police action.
He said police would continue operations to remove criminal groups from communities, regardless of whether they were linked to OBT.
“Police will not rest until they are erased with or without trace,” he said.
Baim urged communities to work with police and report suspected criminals.
He also warned armed offenders that police would use force against them.
“Police will not hesitate to get you down if you’re armed,” Baim said.
His comments come as police step up efforts to prevent criminal activity and contain fears over a possible spillover from Lae.
