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Police in the National Capital District and Central Province are investigating four deaths reported during the Christmas period, including two murders and two suspected suicides, according to NCD/Central Police Commander Chief Superintendent Benjamin Turi.

He said one of the murder cases happened at Sabama, where a Goilala man allegedly killed his wife in a domestic violence incident. The suspect has since been arrested and is being held in police custody while investigations continue.

NCD/Central Police Commander Chief Superintendent Benjamin Turi. [Photo PNG Police Media]

Another killing was reported at Joyce Bay, where a 16-year-old boy from Western Province was allegedly attacked and killed by men from Enga Province who are living in the area. Chief Superintendent Turi said two suspects have been arrested in connection with the incident and police are continuing follow-up inquiries.

The two other deaths were reported as suicides, with one occurring at Kila Barracks and the other at Six Mile. Police are looking into the circumstances surrounding both cases.

Chief Superintendent Turi said alcohol played a role in all the murder cases recorded during the festive period. He reminded the public that liquor restrictions are imposed during holidays to prevent violence and disorder, but some people continue to ignore the rules.

He urged residents not to take the law into their own hands and to allow police to deal with criminal matters, adding that officers have already received information and names of suspects linked to the cases.

“All these murder cases were alcohol-related, which is why we are calling on each individual to behave during the New Year celebration. If you consume liquor, stay indoors, respect your neighbours and listen to music that will not disturb them. When you are under the influence of liquor, you will have no respect for others. That is why liquor is banned during the festive season. The young man who was murdered in Joyce Bay was supposed to be at his house but was on the road disturbing others, which led to his alleged death,” Chief Superintendent Turi said.

“I am calling on the people of NCD and Central Province to behave. You all have one life. Respect yourself, your neighbours and your family. If you die now, your children will suffer. Please listen; we do not want to respond to murder cases again during the New Year.”

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