Lae police issue hard warning to OBT gangs

Lae Metropolitan Police Commander Chief Superintendent Chris Kunyanban has issued a strong warning to Operation Brukim Tulait, or OBT, gangs, saying police will continue targeted operations to identify and arrest those behind the crimes.

Kunyanban's warning comes amid growing concern in Lae over reports of breaking, entering and stealing, as well as armed robberies carried out during the early hours of the morning.

He said OBT groups often operate in large numbers and, in some cases, involve women and children.

The commander said police would not allow criminals to use the cover of darkness and numbers to terrorise communities.

“My warning to the OBT gang is that you stop doing this crime or you will not live long,” Kunyanban said.

He said police intelligence gathering and targeted raids against suspected OBT members would continue.

Kunyanban also issued a direct warning to suspects who carry firearms and attempt to use them against police or members of the public.

“My personnel will not hesitate to defend themselves or people who are threatened with firearms. Take this seriously,” he said.

The commander said police were also working with communities to strengthen security through recognised neighbourhood watch groups.

He said community members could play an important role by reporting suspicious activity and sharing information with police.

However, he warned residents not to take the law into their own hands.

Kunyanban said neighbourhood watch groups must operate under clear guidelines and work closely with police.

He said some people were already using fears surrounding OBT to target others.

“The fear now is that the people or the neighbourhood watch group might abuse the concept rather than address genuine OBT threats,” he said.

Police will now work with sub-station commanders to identify and register legitimate neighbourhood watch groups across Lae.

Standard Operating Procedures will also be developed to guide the groups on how to respond to suspected criminal activity.

Kunyanban said the police response would be based on intelligence, community cooperation and targeted operations.

He also warned against attempts to use the OBT situation for political purposes.

“People's lives must not be used for political gain,” he said.

The commander said the responsibility for making Lae safe rested with both police and the wider community.

He urged residents to remain vigilant, report suspicious activity and allow police to deal with suspected criminals.

“Let's all work together to make Lae safe and peaceful for everyone living and visiting Lae,” Kunyanban said.