Police in Central and other support units were quick to respond to one of their officers who was traveling to Port Moresby from Vanapa. He witnessed Goilalas residing at Vanapa Bridge blocking off the road and trying to damage vehicles. Central Provincial Police Commander acting Supt. Joseph Salle confirmed that the police officer, while trying to control the situation, was outnumbered, and the Goilalas stoned a PMV bus, causing the driver to lose control and go off the road.
They then damaged the windows, robbed all the passengers’ properties, and left.
“Police units from Port Moresby, Doa, and Berina responded and assisted in the search for four missing passengers. The four were found in the bush and were transported back to Port Moresby. The bus was also escorted with the passengers back to Port Moresby, where a police complaint was lodged regarding the incident,” PPC Salle said.
He further added that all passengers are safe, but their belongings were stolen by the Goilalas during the ordeal. He said police had assisted them, and they are all now safe.
“I want to thank my police officers for their quick response in ensuring that all lives are safe. I also want to inform the general public traveling along that section of the road to be on alert because the Goilalas are still not happy with what happened at Waigani. We are trying our best to find a win-win solution for all parties involved,” PPC Salled added.
He also condemned the false information that is being circulated on social media, stating that four people were killed at Vanapa. He said it is false.
