Brutal Crime Wave in Port Moresby: Governor Parkop Pleas for CCTV and Stronger Police Command

Traffic at Central Waigani, Port Moresby, File Photo

​Port Moresby, Papua New Guinea — National Capital District (NCD) Governor Powes Parkop has urged the appointment of a dedicated police commander for NCD/Central and emphasized the need for funding to support the proposed closed-circuit television (CCTV) project in the city. His call comes in response to growing concerns about crime following the armed robbery at Tokarara, where a security guard was tragically shot dead by assailants.

Since the civil unrest on January 10, only an acting appointment has been made to the police command in the city. This followed an inquiry into assistant police commissioner Anthony Wagambie. Parkop is pushing for a permanent appointment to enhance the leadership and effectiveness of the police force.

The funding for the CCTV Safe City Project was committed by Prime Minister James Marape in 2023 and is included in this year’s National Budget. Parkop highlighted that the implementation of this project is crucial in enhancing security and deterring crime in the city.

Condemning the recent violence, Parkop stated, “They are totally unacceptable and cannot be justified under any circumstances.” He acknowledged that incidents of armed robbery and petty crimes are becoming increasingly common in the city, prompting leaders to seek social and economic solutions to prevent young people from turning to crime, particularly hold-ups.

To combat these issues, Parkop has been mobilizing community networks to enhance security in the city and assist police efforts. The first initiative is taking place in Ward 8, which includes June Valley, Tokarara, and Ensisi. Parkop plans to extend this support to the other 11 wards as well, utilizing funds from the Provincial Service Improvement Programme in collaboration with the National Capital District Commission.

“Under this community mobilisation, we are already deploying trained young people to clear major traffic lights and street junctions of vendors,” he stated, indicating that support to the wards would begin soon. Parkop’s proactive approach reflects a commitment to addressing the root causes of crime and improving the safety of residents in the capital city.
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