Madang police commander warns against compensation demands following bridge collapses

Madang Provincial Police Commander [PPC] Superintendent Robert Baim has warned residents of Wards 9 and 10 in the Usino Local Level Government, from any attempts to demand compensation for government restoration works on the Yanamu and Aumea bridges.

The two critical bridges collapsed last week Wednesday morning, severing a vital link on the Bruce Jephcott Highway and disrupting business operations for several days. Major entities, including Ramu NiCo and various freight companies operating between Madang, Morobe, and the Highlands, reported significant logistical setbacks.

Superintendent Baim raised the concern following reports that some locals were allegedly demanding payments before allowing a bypass to be constructed at Yanamu. In response, the Department of Works and Highways requested a police presence to ensure the safety of workers and the continuity of the project.

“If these allegations are true, such demands are unacceptable,” Baim said. “Proper channels of communication must be followed. The public must not be held to ransom.”

Interim crossings have since been established at both Yanamu and Aumea, restoring access for commuters and freight operators. However, Baim condemned the use of public infrastructure as a bargaining chip to pressure authorities.

“Anyone interfering with or preventing access for the traveling public will be dealt with accordingly under the law,” he said.

To maintain order, officers from Lae’s Mobile Squad 13 and Walium Police remain deployed on-site. They are tasked with providing security for ongoing works and managing traffic flow across the temporary access points.

Baim urged local communities to cooperate with the authorities, emphasizing that the current wet crossing is a temporary measure until the Aumea Bridge can be fully reconstructed.

“The priority is to restore access and keep people and goods moving,” Baim said.

Motorists traveling the highway are advised to exercise extreme caution when navigating the wet crossings.