PNG Attorney-General Davis Steven condemns attack on Chief Justice Sir Injia

The Attorney-General of Papua New Guinea, Hon. Davis Steven MP, has condemned the attack on the Chief Justice, Sir Salamo Injia, by a group of men in Enga yesterday.

It is understood the motivation behind the assault was a local issue between villages, and the Attorney-General said there can be no toleration for such acts and those behind will feel the full force of the law.

"The cowardly assault on Sir Salamo Injia by an unruly mob is despicable,” the Attorney-General said.

"On behalf of the Prime Minister, and the Government, we are all grateful to know that Sir Salamo is safe and I commend the police officers who provided protection.

“Regardless of local motivation behind the incident, an attack on a Chief Justice is an attack on the Judiciary and our system of Government.

“The State must protect this important office in the interest of the people of the country.

"Such behaviour will not be tolerated, and our police and will deal with the people involved in this incident.

“I expect the perpetrators to feel the full force of law enforcement, and they will answer for their actions.

“I have asked for a situation report on the matter from the Office of the Chief Justice, Police Ministry and the Secretary for National Judicial Staff Services.

“Sir Salamo Injia is a leader in our Nation, he is highly respected in Papua New Guinea and around the world, and this is how he has been treated by cowards with mob mentality.

“What image does this send to people around our country and to our friends around the world?

“The people involved in this attack are an embarrassment to the Nation and should hang their heads in shame.”