By WAISTA ROYAL from East New Britain
A proposal to enhance the National Identification (NID) system in East New Britain (ENB) Province, aimed at closely monitoring individuals entering the province, has sparked debate and raised questions about priorities in law enforcement and public safety.
Assistant Commissioner Naua Vanuavalu has reportedly requested provincial government funding to improve and manage the NID system, prompting concerns that this focus may be overshadowing more immediate needs within the police force.
The proposal, described by some as akin to implementing a “visa” system for entry into the province, has drawn mixed reactions from the community.
While proponents argue it could enhance security and help manage population flow, critics contend that it fails to address the fundamental challenges faced by local law enforcement.
“Why are we talking about a sophisticated NID system when our police are struggling with basic necessities?” William Owen, a resident of Kokopo, questioned.
He stressed the dire situation at Toguata Baliora Barracks, where he says there has been no water supply since June last year (2024).
This reality has pressed the disparity between the ambitious NID proposal and the pressing needs of the police force.
The call for improved resources for the police is growing louder. Concerns have been raised about the need for increased manpower, upgraded logistics, and better housing for officers.
There are also calls for the construction of new barracks in Kokopo and a larger, better-equipped police station with improved facilities and a bigger car park.
“An upgrade to police barracks would do wonders for morale,” said one community member, suggesting that investing in the well-being of law enforcement personnel would be a more effective way to boost their capacity and effectiveness.
August Benson repeated the sentiment, drawing attention to the long-standing issue of “vagrants” in the province.
“We’ve been calling for action on this for a long time, but nothing has been done,” Benson stated, implying that a focus on addressing the root causes of crime and social issues is more crucial than implementing an entry control system.
Benson also raised critical questions about the justification for the NID proposal, adding, “What data have they got to justify the need for ID for visitors? The data should have solid evidence that visitors are causing the crimes. Secondly; have they questioned and obtained information from culprits arrested as to why exactly they are committing these crimes? such information is vital on drawing up solutions directly aimed at root cause.”
The debate surrounding the NID proposal raises broader questions about how best to allocate resources for law enforcement and public safety.
While technological solutions can play a role, there’s a growing consensus that they should complement, not replace, fundamental investments in police capacity, infrastructure, and the social determinants of crime.
Provincial leaders must face the challenge of balancing the potential benefits of enhanced identification systems with the urgent need to address the practical challenges faced by the police force and the community.
The decisions they make will have an impact on the future of law enforcement and public safety in East New Britain.
The concerned citizens will be waiting for a responsible response and they are hoping for solutions that prioritize both security and the well-being of those tasked with upholding it.
