Papua New Guinea: Security stability unlikely to be disrupted during 50th Independence Anniversary

On 25 August, the United States Embassy in Port Moresby issued a security alert ahead of Papua New Guinea’s 50th independence anniversary. The alert warned of security risks from 26 August to 17 September and provided guidelines for citizens, including avoiding large gatherings, maintaining a low profile, and limiting travel. On 29 August, the US Department of State issued a further general travel advisory to reconsider travelling to Papua New Guinea, citing crime, civil unrest, and piracy as reasons. US citizens were advised to avoid Central Bougainville, particularly areas near the Panguna mine and the Highlands region, excluding the towns of Mt. Hagen and Goroka, due to civil unrest. On 4 September, PNG’s Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP) Benjamin Turi labelled a public safety notice bearing his name and the Royal Papua New Guinea Constabulary (RPNGC) false. ACP Benjamin Turi stated that the document, which warned of widespread unrest and violence, was “a complete fabrication.” The Provincial Police Commander (PPC) for Madang Province also warned citizens to disregard rumours spreading on social media about plans to disrupt the 50th independence anniversary celebrations. The PPC assured the public of safety during the celebration and warned of consequences for troublemakers.

Assessment: Although isolated incidents of crime, including robbery and violent crime,  are likely to occur during the 50th Independence Anniversary in Port Moresby, wholesale disruption to the celebrations are unlikely due to the capital’s increased police presence. Increased police visibility, such as patrols and barriers, is likely to be observed outside Port Moresby. Other than tribal violence in some districts of Enga Province (see PACSUM #28, dated 14-25 August 2025), widespread district-level violence is unlikely in other areas during the celebrations.

Sources: Bramo Tingkeo, “US Embassy warns citizens of PNG’s 50th Anniversary events,” Post Courier, August 29, 2025; “Security Alert – U.S. Embassy Port Moresby, Papua New Guinea (August 25, 2025),” U.S. Embassy to Papua New Guinea, August 25, 2025; “Papua New Guinea Travel Advisory,” U.S. Department of State, August 29, 2025; Miriam Zarriga, “Police urge public to ignore fake “Public Safety Notice”,” Post Courier, September 4, 2025; Martha Louis, “Madang Police warn against rumours of disruption to 50th Independence anniversary,” Post Courier, September 5, 2025.