Christmas and Boxing Day celebrations in Madang Province were reported as quiet and peaceful, with no major incidents recorded, according to Acting Superintendent Robert Baim, the Madang Provincial Police Commander. Superintendent Baim attributed the calm festivities to a strong police presence across the province, which deterred criminal activities and ensured incidents were quickly attended to. “Police were present everywhere, and this helped prevent crimes from happening. We managed to attend to all incidents reported,” he said. The police commander noted that the public showed improved behavior, with many demonstrating respect for one another by controlling loud music and lowering volumes by 10 p.m. He commended the community for their cooperation. Minor incidents involving homebrew consumption and drug abuse were reported, with offenders promptly apprehended and locked up. Additionally, police successfully defused a potentially violent ethnic clash between two groups from the Sepik settlement. Superintendent Baim expressed his gratitude to the people of Madang, both in rural and urban areas, for their efforts to maintain peace during the festive season. “I want to thank everyone for at least showing a change in our mindsets. I also take my hat off to all security forces, including police and Correctional Services officers, for ensuring our people celebrated without intimidation from individuals with ill intentions,” he said. The police commander also acknowledged the role of community leaders, the Community Policing Unit (CPU), and churches in supporting peace efforts. As New Year’s Eve approaches, Superintendent Baim urged the public to continue with the same spirit of unity and responsibility. He reminded residents to keep celebrations safe and to lower music volumes by 2 a.m. “Let us welcome the New Year with positive changes in our attitudes and work together for the development of ourselves and Madang as a whole,” he said. Madang police will maintain heightened patrols to ensure safety and order during the New Year’s celebrations.