Sika commend neighborhood youths for helping NCD police

National Capital District [NCD] Metropolitan Superintendent Silva Sika has praised the Neighborhood Watch Initiative, where youths and communities monitor their streets to prevent drunk drivers and criminals from entering or leaving.

This initiative, introduced by the NCD Governor, has been a great help to the police.

"I want to applaud that and I’m grateful for the initiative coming in. It came at the right time and has helped us greatly," Sika said.

He explained that youths in areas like Tokarara, June Valley, and Morata have taken ownership of the program, which made a positive difference during Christmas.

"Christmas was really good for those places that are usually more noisy or disturbing. People felt safer and the initiative was very effective," Sika added.

Looking ahead to 2025, Sika plans to expand the program across the city.

"Going forward next year, we will try to organize, coordinate, and spread that concept right across the city," he said.

Sika also shared his vision of creating a dedicated 'Neighborhood Unit' under the Community Policing Department.

He explained that this unit would provide proper training, equipment, and recognition to participating youths.

"My take on this is that I want to create a unit called the Neighborhood Unit by itself. It will be directly under the Community Policing Department.

"We need to connect it properly, train them properly, and give them clear roles and responsibilities," Sika said.

The plan includes setting up neighbourhood posts after every two or three streets, with competent supervisors overseeing the units.

Sika suggested the youths could eventually become Auxiliary Police, working closely with regular police officers.

"By raising their profile and giving them proper duty statements, we can ensure they are managed by PACs, Zone Commanders, and coordinated by regular police in the city," Sika explained.

He believes this structured approach will empower the youths, strengthen community safety, and create a sustainable support system for the police.

"This is something that is coming at the right time, adding that more discussions will be held to refine the plan in the coming months," Sika said.

The initiative reflects the growing partnership between the police and local communities in making Port Moresby safer for everyone.