Three arrested in major drug bust worth K200,000 street value in Madang

MADANG police have apprehended three men involved in a large marijuana trafficking operation, intercepted at Tapo Bridge, just outside Madang. The suspects were charged with possession of illicit drugs worth K200,000 on the street, police said. Acting on a tip-off, officers stopped a public motor vehicle (PMV) travelling from Ramu to Madang after receiving details about its involvement in drug transport.

A search of the vehicle revealed a substantial amount of marijuana, carefully wrapped and hidden in the rear compartment. Madang Provincial Police Commander, Acting Superintendent Robert Baim, confirmed the arrests. He noted that the suspects, who are believed to have knowingly transported the drugs, have been formally charged and are now in custody.



Supt Baim addressed the ongoing challenges facing law enforcement in Madang, particularly the lack of specialized resources to tackle drug and arms smuggling. “Madang has been without essential resources, such as specialist drug and explosive detection tools, including trained police dogs,” Supt Baim said. “For now, we rely on information from our law-abiding citizens to help curb these illegal activities.

” He emphasised the importance of police dogs in reducing drug and arms smuggling, expressing optimism that more resources could soon become available to support these efforts. In related news, Supt Baim announced that Madang police are preparing for the annual Christmas and New Year’s operation, “Operation Sain Abe 2,” launching next week. “Yes, we face logistical challenges, but we’re committed to ensuring a safe holiday season for kids and families,” he said.

He also issued a warning that any disruption to public peace would be dealt with seriously. This year’s operation will see increased collaboration between the police and Correctional Services (CS) officers to ensure a peaceful holiday period. Supt Baim expressed his gratitude to CS Commander Superintendent Jackson Gubag and his team for their continued support in maintaining order across the province.

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