The Commissioner of Police, David Manning, has advised that additional RPNGC personnel and assets are in place to manage the response to the emerging tropical cyclone that is developing in the Solomon Sea.
Commissioner Manning called on people in areas affected by the weather pattern to be vigilant, prepare for adverse weather conditions, and to stay away from fallen power lines.
“The exact movement of cyclones can be unpredictable, but we can see this system is moving south-west,” Commissioner Manning warned.
There are warnings of heavy rain and severe winds in island and coastal areas from Milne Bay to Port Moresby.
Manning advised residents and businesses to prepare for adverse weather conditions.
“More police personnel are also on standby to deploy to those regions forecast to experience particularly challenging weather conditions,” said Manning.
The Commissioner issued a direct warning to any criminal element that seeks to exploit damage and disruption cause by the storm.
“I am issuing an obvious warning to anyone who seeks to take advantage of this cyclone for their own criminal gain, that you will be caught and face the full force of the law.”
“While communities are making necessary preparations for these challenging weather conditions, we will have absolutely no tolerance for opportunistic, selfish or alcohol-fuelled behaviour.”
Commissioner Manning said in the face of challenges thrown at the country by mothernature, people pull together for the collective good.
“From people in villages to government agencies, we are all members of the community together who will do our part to help each other and keep our friends and family safe.”