The Royal Papua New Guinea Constabulary (RPNGC) commends the positive public behavior during the 50th Independence celebration. The Commissioner of Police David Manning in a statement this week praised the public attitude, despite social media attempts to stir public unrest. Commissioner Manning pointed out the small number of agitators that will feel the full force of the law if they step out of line. “Anyone thinking they can ruin community spirit will feel the full weight of a rapid police response," the Commissioner warned. “Police are monitoring known hotspots, with significant policing resources deployed across Port Moresby and all regional centres. “All commands around the country are prepared, the Special Services Division has been mobilized and the KUMUL23 Police Tactical Group is on standby for rapid deployment. “Security preparations have been underway for a number of months, and these preparations are ensuring our law-abiding citizens can celebrate this significant event safely. “I also thank our personnel who are working over the holiday period. These police men and women are performing their duty, and forgoing their family time on Independence Day, to perform their jobs for our nation. “We have more than five thousand police on duty to support 50th Independence Day celebrations, this is backed up by the support of PNG intelligence agencies.” Commissioner Manning commended the public on their sensible response to baseless misinformation on social media. “We continue to see efforts by subversive elements to sow discord through baseless misinformation and fearmongering," Manning said. “We are investigating a number of efforts to spread misinformation through social media. Police will deal with the people who created the messages, as these messages can and are being traced." “I commend our sensible, law-abiding citizens for treating this disinformation with the contempt it deserves. It is a cowardly attempt to break our national unity." “We are all in this together, celebrating 50 years as a unified country, and tens of thousands of years old traditional culture." “Let all Papua New Guineans enjoy festivities responsibly as we usher in this important milestone for our country.”