In the East Sepik Province, a shadow of danger has loomed over the lives of its people, leaving behind a trail of lost lives and enduring scars. Referred to ominously as ‘the silencer’, the wire catapult has emerged as a grave threat to the safety and well-being of the community in Wewak. Urgent and decisive action from the provincial government is imperative to eradicate this perilous weapon from our streets, ensuring the protection of our citizens.
The wire catapult, in the wrong hands, transforms into a tool of destruction and chaos. Its presence poses a direct challenge to the peace and security we all strive for. It is high time that the provincial government takes the lead in shielding its constituents from the hazards this weapon presents. The most effective course of action is a complete ban on the possession, usage, and manufacturing of the wire catapult.
The consequences of inaction are stark. Our misguided youth, drawn into the allure of this lethal contraption, are jeopardizing their lives and the lives of those around them. To curb this alarming trend, stringent measures must be enforced. Those found in possession of the wire catapult should face swift legal repercussions, including arrest and charges.
The gravity of manufacturing such a dangerous weapon demands an even more robust response. Anyone involved in its production should not only be apprehended and charged but should also face a minimum prison sentence of three years. This stern penalty sends a clear message that the creation of instruments that jeopardize lives is absolutely unacceptable and will be met with severe consequences.
The need for action is underscored by the grim statistics that have accumulated over time. To grasp the full magnitude of the havoc wrought by the wire catapult, one needs only to visit Boram General Hospital. Here, the data stands as a haunting testament to the lives lost and the countless individuals scarred by encounters with ‘the silencer’.
The call for the East Sepik Provincial Government and the Royal Papua New Guinea Constabulary (RPNGC) to intervene in combatting the wire catapult is an urgent one. It is a call to preserve lives, safeguard our community, and establish a precedent of uncompromising safety measures. By banning the weapon, arresting those in possession, and imposing stringent penalties on manufacturers, we can collectively strive to reclaim our streets from the grip of danger and pave the way for a safer, more secure East Sepik Province.
AUNA MELO 