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An ethnic clash in Waigani, a suburb in Papua New Guinea’s capital Port Moresby, has left five people dead and the local market in ruins following a blaze that tore through the area.

According to NCD/Central Police Commander Benjamin Turi, the violent confrontation broke out in the early hours and involved two rival ethnic groups. Tensions flared quickly, leading to widespread destruction.

 Five Killed as Ethnic Violence Erupts in PNG's Capital Port Moresby

The violence is believed to have begun when a man was reportedly stabbed after refusing to give K2 to a group of individuals near the Stop & Shop fire gate.

While attempting to escape the attackers, the victim ran toward the Waigani Police Station but was hit by a speeding vehicle, resulting in serious injuries to his legs.

Soon after, flames engulfed the Waigani Market and nearby makeshift shelters. The fire spread rapidly, destroying properties and putting nearby residences at risk.

During the police response, officers discovered a decapitated body in the remains of burnt shelters near the Waigani drain, an area linked to one of the groups involved in the confrontation.

Commander Turi confirmed that the decapitated body was one of the five fatalities. He expressed concern over the lack of respect for law and life, urging residents to resolve differences peacefully through lawful channels.

Authorities are now investigating the full circumstances surrounding the incident, including the cause of the fire and the identities of those involved in the violence.

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