Neighborhood Watch Groups have now been successfully established across all police stations in the National Capital District as part of Operation Iron Star, with community members actively patrolling their own streets alongside police in a strengthened push to deter crime this Christmas period.
The update was confirmed by NCD Metropolitan Superintendent and Operation Commander Warrick Simatab, who said the formation of neighborhood watch groups marks a key operational phase of Operation Iron Star, officially launched on December 18 as the NCD Police Festive Security Operation.
Under the community deterrence strategy, Police Station Commanders and Officers-in-Charge for Community Policing worked directly with community leaders and youths to establish watch groups across all 10 NCD police stations, including Port Moresby Central, Badili, Hohola, Boroko, Waigani, Gerehu, Gordons, and the 6, 7 and 9-Mile areas.
Superintendent Simatab said the approach is simple but effective to stop crime before it happens by ensuring communities and police stand together.
“These groups become the eyes and ears of the police,” he said. “When criminals see communities actively working with police, they are afraid to commit crimes. This is how we keep our suburbs peaceful and our families safe during Christmas.”
The neighborhood watch rollout forms part of the wider Operation Iron Star framework, which includes high-visibility policing, strict enforcement of liquor and traffic laws, hotspot patrols and zero tolerance for disorderly behavior during the festive season.
Superintendent Simatab also encouraged other suburbs that have not yet formed neighborhood watch groups to contact their local Police Station Commander.
“If your area does not have a Neighborhood Watch Group yet, talk to your PSC or OIC Community Policing today. We want to work with you to take back our streets.”
With Operation Iron Star now fully active, police say community patrols are a clear signal that Port Moresby is reclaiming its streets together.
The operation will continue till the 6th of January 2026, with police and residents jointly working to ensure a safe, calm and respectful festive season across the capital city.
