CJLU supports a productive life away from Crime
A total of 38 participants from Gavuone village have undergone the Community Fisheries Management Training at Kupiano Station, facilitated by the Fisheries Division of the Central Province Administration, and District Services Kupiano (Community Development, and Commerce).
The training program was supported by the Community Justice Liaison Unit of the PNG Law and Justice Sector. This support was based on the moving forward recommendations of the Gavuone law and order summit that was organized by the Minister for Lands and Physical Planning, Dr Puka Temu in October 2005.
As part of the summit, gangs operating along the Highway comprising youths from Gavuone in October 2005 surrendered a total of 37 illegal firearms to authorities. Illiteracy rates are high in the village, according to ward member George Agi; and the youths needed skills programs and information to settle well in the community and live decent lives by engaging in sustainable economic activities to fund them at the community level. According to Councillor Agi, Gavuone is a growing village community and discussions on district development priorities should go in line with the engagement of youths in meaningful activities.
One of such meaningful economic activity has been the fisheries training program initiated by the Community Development Division of the Central Province, through its Community Development Officer Mr Lawrence Baro. Central Province Fisheries Advisor Mr Ratu Iga highlighted the fact that Central Province Administration has neglected the young people in terms of fisheries development. The CJLU initiative is one that tries to give opportunity to young people to be productive
In October 2005, the youths surrendered the firearms and challenged the police, "we have given up our guns, what have you to give us". According to the leader of the reformed youths from Gavuone Village, Mr Kalai Magiu, youths have been neglected and overlooked, and they had therefore resorted to arm robberies along the Highway. They thanked CJLU for the efforts in getting down to the community level and working with the youths to understand their needs and helping facilitate their program. The Gavuone Youths also acknowledged the Minister for Lands and Physical planning for his efforts in organizing the Gavuone summit.
According to the Police station Commander at Kupiano station Inspector Casmiro Aia, "serious crimes along the highway has declined". The Community Cops concept is also helping police maintain law and order at the ward level. In the past according to the Police station commander, "Kupiano/ Moreguina intersection is known for highway robberies". The Gavuone Law and order summit has paved way forward a lot of the improvement in law and order at the District level.
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