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CCAC urges PNG Government to come up with Comprehensive and Operational strategy to combat crime

Ahisha Mangot

Port Moresby: The Community Coalition Against Corruption (CCAC) has raised alarm over the increasing wave of violent crimes in Papua New Guinea, citing recent killings in East New Britain, Enga, and Port Moresby as evidence of growing lawlessness. 

(Panelists of the CCAC Press Conference.)


At a press conference held on Thursday, October 24 at the Catholic Bishops Conference, the CCAC Steering Committee called on the government to urgently implement a comprehensive operational strategy to tackle crime.


The Community Coalition Against Corruption Steering Committee include John Byrne (Lae Chamber of Commerce and Industry President), Wilma Kosi (PNG TUC), Michael Guka (PNG Council of Churches, Co-Chairs Peter Aitsi (Transparency International PNG) and Neville Choi (Media Council of PNG President) and Cathy Alex of Advancing PNG: Women Leader’s Network.


According to the CCAC, the root causes of the rising crime rate are tied to deep-seated economic and social issues, including unemployment, poverty, and inequality. "The weak economy, coupled with soaring unemployment rates and the growing cost of living, has created a toxic environment that is breeding crime and violence nationwide," the committee stated. 


They highlighted the breakdown in governance and law enforcement as further contributing to the deteriorating security situation.


The CCAC emphasized that immediate action is required from all sectors of society, particularly elected leaders, public officials, and the police force. They called for the government to work with law enforcement to develop a comprehensive, strategic, and operational plan aimed at addressing both the symptoms and root causes of crime.


"The focus must be on prevention and deterrence," the CCAC noted, stressing that the police must play a leading role in restoring law and order. The coalition advocates for increased police visibility, improved community policing, and targeted interventions in known crime hotspots to address violence and restore safety to affected communities.


The group also stressed on the importance of addressing the underlying economic issues that fuel crime. They called for measures that promote economic recovery, job creation, and equitable access to opportunities as essential components of any crime-fighting strategy.


Standing in solidarity with the victims of crime and their families, the CCAC urged all stakeholders, from government officials to community groups, to unite in a coordinated effort to combat the crisis. "This is not just a police problem; it’s a societal issue that requires collaboration across all sectors to restore peace and security to our nation."


 The press conference concluded with a renewed call for the government to take swift action in the face of what the CCAC describes as a crisis and national emergency. The coalition warned that failure to act could lead to even greater instability and violence in the country.

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