ONE member of the criminal gangs was bashed up by the communities and died at the scene whilst another was critically injured following an attempted armed robbery and subsequent community retaliation at nine Mile, Lae Morobe province.
At approximately late hours of yesterday and early hours of this morning, Sunday 20th June 2026, a group of youths believed to be members of the criminal gang known as “Operation Brukim Tulait” (OBT) allegedly forced entry into the residence of an SME youth identified as Jimmy (victim) and demanded cash from him.
Morobe Provincial Police Commander (PPC), Chief Superintendent, Samson Siguyaru confirmed that upon victim’s refusal, one of the alleged offenders reportedly slashed him in the abdomen with a bush knife where the victim was transported to the Angau Memorial Hospital for urgent medical treatment, but his current medical condition is yet to be confirmed.
The victim’s cries for assistance alerted the nearby community members, who responded immediately and managed to comprehend two alleged offenders whilst the rest escaped under the cover of darkness.
PPC Siguyaru said two suspects were subsequently assaulted by the members of the community and as a result, one suspect succumbed to his injuries at the scene whilst the second sustained severe head injuries and remained in critical condition.
“Police personnel from the Morobe Provincial Police Command Rapid Response Unit (RRU) and the Sector Response Unit (SRU) responded promptly to the incident and prevented further violence and maintained public order.
“I also attended the scene this morning and addressed the gathered crowds and warned relatives and associates of the parties involved against any form of retaliation, payback or revenge-related actions.
“They were advised to allow police to investigate the matter and for all legal processes to proceed accordingly. No private mediation or informal settlement arrangement will be permitted,” PPC Siguyaru said.
PPC said the situation remains stable and under control now. Police presence continues in the area to deter any potential retaliatory actions and to reassure the community.
PPC said police investigations are continuing to identify and apprehend the remaining suspects who escaped and to establish the full circumstances surrounding the incident.
PPC said police would continue monitoring the area due to the potential retaliatory actions by relatives or associates of those involved. He said an intelligent gathering and targeted operation would continue to locate the outstanding suspects.
PPC Siguyaru commended the members of the RRU, SRU, Morobe Provincial Police Command, and Lae Metro Command for their professionalism, swift response and commitment in effectively managing the situation and preventing further escalation.
