News Release: 22 February 2024
Commissioner of Police, David Manning, has confirmed additional security forces personnel have been deployed to the Wapenamanda area following tribal fighting on Sunday 17th of February.
The Commissioner also called on provincial and local leaders in Enga to directly intervene with their people to calm tensions.
“The multiple deaths that occurred from a tribal clash in the vicinity of Wapenamanda, Enga Province, was a disgraceful act of barbarity,” the Commissioner said.
“There is absolutely no excuse for this senseless violence that has caused a significant number of deaths and ruined the lives of many families, and further harmed the reputation of Enga and the Nation.
“The total number of dead and injured is still being assessed as police recover further remains from dense scrubland.
“Police responded to the situation as soon as was possible under the circumstances.
“Details on the conflict are still being investigated and information on what occurred will be released as confirmed this comes to hand.
“However, there is no other way to look at this situation other than it is an act of domestic terrorism.
“Legislation is being introduced to Parliament that will further strengthen the law enforcement capacity of security forces to intervene to precent acts of domestic terrorism.
“With the increased number of illegal firearms in circulation tougher measures are required particularly in bringing domestic terrorists, including weapons smugglers, to justice.”
The Commissioner said security personnel have clear orders to engage with offenders using all legal measures of force at their disposal.
“Security forces have initiated targeted operations in the area to isolate fighting zones and restore law and order.
“This includes the deployment of RPNGC mobile unit personnel and PNGDF soldiers.
“These personnel have clear instructions that are to use any level of force required to prevent further violence and payback. This includes the use of up to deadly force when the lives of civilians or security personnel are threatened.
“The security presence in the conflict area will remain in place as local and provincial leaders are engaged to reduce tension.
“I will be announcing the appointment of additional on-the-ground leadership, tasked to more effectively engage with affected communities.”
Commissioner Manning said while security forces intervene, provincial and local leadership has an important role to play in reducing tensions.
“Ultimately it is the influence of provincial and local leaders have on their communities that prevent this violence and can restore calm.
“This provincial leadership is essential for long term calm as security forces enforce the rule of law.”