Lae papua new guinea crime

Lae, the second-largest city in Papua New Guinea (PNG), has a significant crime problem. Here are some examples of crimes that have been reported in Lae:

  1. Violent crime: Lae has a high incidence of violent crime, including armed robberies, assaults, and murders. In 2020, the Lae Metropolitan Superintendent reported that there were 1,144 reported cases of violent crime in the city.
  2. Theft and burglary: Theft and burglary are common in Lae, with many homes and businesses being targeted. In 2019, the Lae Police Commander reported that there were over 1,000 reported cases of theft and burglary in the city.
  3. Drug-related crime: Lae has a significant drug problem, with many residents using and dealing drugs such as marijuana, cocaine, and methamphetamine. Drug-related crime, including drug trafficking and drug-related violence, is a major concern in the city.
  4. Sexual assault and rape: Sexual assault and rape are serious problems in Lae, with many cases going unreported due to fear of retaliation or stigma. In 2020, the Lae Provincial Health Authority reported that there were over 100 reported cases of sexual assault and rape in the city.
  5. Corruption: Corruption is a significant problem in Lae, with many residents reporting that they have been asked for bribes by police and other officials. Corruption can contribute to a culture of impunity, making it more difficult to combat crime.
  6. Gang violence: Lae has a number of gangs that are involved in various forms of criminal activity, including drug trafficking, extortion, and violence. Gang violence is a major concern in the city, with many residents living in fear of gang-related violence.
  7. Carjacking and hijacking: Carjacking and hijacking are common in Lae, with many vehicles being stolen or hijacked at gunpoint. In 2020, the Lae Police Commander reported that there were over 50 reported cases of carjacking and hijacking in the city.
  8. Fraud and scams: Lae is also a hub for fraud and scams, with many residents reporting that they have been targeted by scammers and fraudsters. Common scams include online fraud, investment scams, and romance scams.

To combat crime in Lae, the Papua New Guinea government has implemented a number of initiatives, including:

  1. Increased police presence: The government has increased the number of police officers in Lae, with a focus on deploying officers to high-crime areas.
  2. Community policing: The government has introduced community policing initiatives, which aim to build trust between police and the community and to encourage residents to report crime.
  3. Crime prevention programs: The government has implemented a number of crime prevention programs, including programs to reduce drug use and to promote community safety.
  4. Investment in infrastructure: The government has invested in infrastructure projects in Lae, including the construction of new roads and the upgrading of public transportation systems. This is aimed at reducing crime by improving the overall quality of life in the city.
  5. International cooperation: The government has also sought to strengthen international cooperation to combat crime in Lae, including through partnerships with other countries and international organizations.

Despite these efforts, crime remains a significant problem in Lae, and residents continue to face many challenges in terms of safety and security.