Police shoot dead wanted man in Alotau

Police in Alotau have shot dead a suspect wanted for a series of armed hold-ups and for aiding a recent daylight prison escape.

Judo Igo Morea, in his 30's is part of a notorious gang of escapees, responsible for a spate of robberies.
In a statement provincial police commander chief superintendent Joseph Morehari confirms a gun battle had ensured with police midday Sunday resulting in the death of the young man.
"Judo Igo Morea Elias Jaks or Whitie who was shot dead bettween 11 a.m and 12 midday on Sunday.
"He came out with pistol and point 22 so police shot him.
"As a result he died from police gunshot."

He says they recovered a point 2-2 factory made rifle, a silver revolver pistol, 4 live mm rounds, two empty shells, a metal axe, a bushknife and three sharp knives at the scene.
He was drinking in the company of at least 9 others at Wiole when police pounced upon them.
His companions all fled the scene. NBC News / PNG Today