Vanuatu: Police 60-day public order campaign likely to see isolated violent incidents in Port Vila

On 8 May, the Vanuatu Police Force (VPF) launched Operations Zero Tolerance and Spotlight under the 60-day "Operation Port Vila Reset." The operation aims to restore law and order in Port Vila following a perception of rising youth crime, alcohol-fuelled violence, public disorder, and illegal alcohol sales. Police Commissioner Kalshem Bongran said the operations would increase foot and mobile patrols, vehicle checkpoints, and late-night policing in high-risk areas, while targeting repeat offenders, drunk driving, underage drinking, and businesses breaching alcohol licensing laws, including sales to minors. Police will also monitor bars, nightclubs, kava bars, and other licensed premises, with offenders facing prosecution or closure. As part of the response, the VPF will pilot a youth rehabilitation programme in high-risk areas of Port Vila offering mentorship, counselling, skills training, and employment pathways for vulnerable youths, alongside a school cadet programme at Onesua Presbyterian College focused on discipline and leadership.

Assessment: Confrontations with intoxicated persons, particularly large gatherings of youth, are likely to see isolated incidents of violence between offenders and the VPF around Port Vila, with higher risk on Friday and Saturday nights.

Sources: Mark Sheehy, “Zero tolerance as Vanuatu mounts 60-day crackdown,” Island Business, 11 May 2026; Nicholas Mwai, “Police reactivate Zero Tolerance and Operation Spotlight,” Daily Post, 7 May 2026; Ezra Toara, “Police target nightclubs, bars and public disorder in 60-day crackdown on crime,” Daily Post, 9 May 2026.