The Metropolitan Superintendent for the National Capital District (NCD) has commended the swift and proactive response of his Superintendent Operations and duty members following the arrest and charging of 52 individuals linked to an unlawful protest and public intimidation incident in Hohola on Monday, 31 August 2026.

The group—comprising 22 males and 30 females and residing at a settlement in Hohola—gathered with their faces clad in mud and armed with offensive weapons, including bush knives, iron bars, and sticks. The crowd marched from Hohola to the Pacific Betting Shop to demand compensation following the death of a relative near the venue.

Their public display of offensive weapons, mud-clad faces, and aggressive chanting created widespread panic, threatening public safety and terrifying residents, business owners, and passersby in the area.

Frontline police units swiftly intercepted the gathering, contained the situation without further escalation, and processed all 52 suspects.

Summary of Police Action and Court Orders:

• Charges Laid: All 52 individuals have been formally charged with Public Nuisance Possession of Offensive Weapons.
• Bail Status: Police bail was strictly refused for all accused persons.
• Court Remand: The Boroko District Court ordered that all 52 suspects be remanded at Bomana Prison.
• Next Court Appearance: The matter is set to return to court on 7 September 2026.

Metropolitan Superintendent praised the operational teams for their swift tactical intervention, emphasizing that street intimidation and vigilante mob tactics have no place in Port Moresby.

"I commend our Superintendent Operations and all responding members for their firm, proactive stance in restoring order. Let this serve as a stern warning: Police will not tolerate, compromise with, or yield to any individuals or groups who think they can use bully tactics, weapons, and public fear for personal gain or illegal demands."

"The days of mob intimidation on our capital's streets STOP NOW! under our Divisional Command Management. We stand firm on maintaining public order, protecting our citizens, and enforcing the rule of law without fear or favour."

The Metropolitan Command reassures the public and business sector in Hohola and across NCD that the Sentinel high-visibility police operations will continue to ensure total public safety and street control.