Strict rules set for Madang holiday celebrations
Police in Madang are cracking down on public gatherings, late-night movements, and school breakup parties to prevent crime and curb growing anxiety over social media rumours ahead of Papua New Guinea’s 51st Independence anniversary.
Madang Provincial Police Commander Superintendent Robert Baim issued the strict directive on Friday as schools close for the Term Three break, warning that police will aggressively enforce law and order across the province.
Supt Baim said the measures are specifically targeted at preventing violence and dispelling fear fueled by unverified claims surrounding alleged 'OBT baby raskols' operating in the province.
“As Papua New Guinea approaches Independence Day on September 16, marking the start of our next 50-year journey, I call on all members of the public in Madang to observe these police reminders to ensure peaceful celebrations,” Supt Baim said.
Under the police directive:
- School breakup parties: Remain strictly banned, in line with orders from previous years;
- GROUP movement: Public gatherings or group movements are limited to no more than five people;
- CHILDREN'S safety: Students are prohibited from attending birthday celebrations or social gatherings unless directly supervised by a parent, teacher, or guardian;
- PUBLIC gatherings: Any public assembly or event must obtain formal police clearance prior to taking place;
- NIGHT movement: Non-essential public movement after 10pm is strictly restricted, except for legitimate emergencies [police clarified this is a safety restriction, not a formal curfew]; and,
- LOUD music: Playing loud music after 10pm remains strictly prohibited, with police set to act on noise complaints.
Supt Baim said that while the rules may appear strict, they are essential to maintaining public order and ensuring opportunistic criminals do not disrupt the holiday period.
“These may seem like small guidelines, but they will help minimise crime and reduce fear caused by baseless rumours of OBT baby raskols,” Supt Baim said.
“Together, we can make Madang safe.”