The Commissioner of Police, David Manning, has condemned the selfish and stupid behaviour of students and local villagers involved in a violent confrontation over the weekend in Goroka.
Commissioner Manning confirmed the deployment of additional police from Mobile Squads and surrounding provincial commands had brought normality back to Goroka township.
“During the evening of Saturday, 8th November, a fight broke out between students attending theuniversity of Goroka and locals from a neighbouring village,” Commissioner Manning confirmed.
“Early on the number of people involved in the fighting far outnumbered police who called in reinforcements and calmed the situation.
“The Goroka General Hospital has confirmed that 40 students were admitted with injuries, and a number of vehicles and houses were damaged.
“Three police were also injured by intoxicated individuals throwing stones.
The Commissioner expressed his concern at the quick escalation of the fight, and the haphazard response by the local police command.
“The manner in which this matter escalated is of serious concern. The effectiveness of this
policing units is unacceptable. I expect better and more effective policing from provincial commands.
“I have directed an immediate review of the operational preparations and the policing response to this matter, overseen by Deputy Commissioner of Police (Regional Operations).
“Internal Affairs investigators have been deployed to examine the actions of police on the ground, and determine why a swifter and more professional policing outcome was not delivered.
“Until suchtime as satisfactory answers are provided, Mobile Squad members will continue to maintain a presence in Goroka. The Provincial Police Commander for Eastern Highlands Province and Police Station Commander for Goroka have been stood down from their
duties.
Commissioner Manning called on the University of Goroka and student bodies to examine the behaviour of students.
“This sort of alcohol fuelled behaviour is unacceptable. Students and surrounding communities have suffered as the result of alcohol-fuelled stupidity.
“It is disappointing to see the escalation of a dispute that could have been quickly resolved if reported to police.
“We need to put a stop to this culture of violence. Our educated youth must break from such practices.
“There are many universities around our nation that have robust policies and professional cultures, which ensure that such acts of violence do not occur.
“I expect that all universities take proactive steps to reinforce positive campus cultures and uphold high standards of student behaviour. Leadership teams should work collaboratively with student bodies to promote respect, responsibility and accountability, ensuring that every student is aware of the consequences of reckless actions”.
Anyone who witnessed the incident or has relevant information is strongly encouraged to come forward and assist investigators.