NSW Man Arrested with 60 Kilograms of Cocaine in Port Moresby

Papua New Guinea police have apprehended a 45-year-old man from New South Wales, Australia, for allegedly possessing 60 kilograms of cocaine at a hotel in Port Moresby. The arrest occurred late on the night of July 1, 2025, at the North Waigani Universal Lodge, where police estimate the street value of the seized cocaine to be in the millions of dollars.

According to Police Commissioner David Manning, the man is expected to face serious drug trafficking charges. Manning stated, "While specific details of the arrest overnight cannot be released until the matter goes to court, police operations are ongoing into the broader criminal syndicate." This case highlights ongoing concerns regarding drug trafficking in Papua New Guinea, particularly as officials believe that Port Moresby has become a significant transit point for international drug smuggling.

Police Superintendent Warrick Simatab noted that the investigation will require collaboration with international partners to effectively address the issue. "We believe Port Moresby is now a transit point for international drug smuggling," he commented. The implications of this arrest are profound, with PNG legislation stipulating that possession of more than 2.5 kilograms of cocaine could lead to a lifetime prison sentence upon conviction.

This incident is part of a larger trend of drug-related offenses in Papua New Guinea, where law enforcement has been increasingly vigilant against drug trafficking. Manning added, "The arrest last night adds to the list of criminals who have been caught transporting or facilitating the movement of drugs over recent years." The PNG government has been actively working to combat this issue, enhancing their policing strategies and international cooperation.

The broader context surrounding drug trafficking in Papua New Guinea reveals a concerning rise in the country's role as a conduit for narcotics. The United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) has reported an increase in drug-related activities in the Pacific region, which poses significant challenges for local law enforcement and public health. According to the UNODC’s 2023 report, the Pacific Islands are becoming increasingly attractive to drug traffickers due to their geographical position and limited enforcement capabilities.

The arrest of the New South Wales man underscores the urgent need for regional cooperation and more robust law enforcement strategies to combat the transnational drug trade. As the investigation unfolds, the PNG police will likely seek assistance from international agencies to understand and dismantle the networks facilitating this illicit trade.

In conclusion, the apprehension of the man with 60 kilograms of cocaine not only highlights the ongoing drug trafficking challenges faced by Papua New Guinea but also raises questions about the effectiveness of current law enforcement strategies. The international community must remain vigilant and supportive of PNG's efforts to address this pressing issue, as the implications of drug trafficking extend beyond national borders, affecting global security and public health.