PNG New Ireland Police Capture Four After Armed Hold-Up in Kavieng

PNG authorities in New Ireland are holding four suspects following an armed robbery at a major supermarket in Kavieng that involved a stolen vehicle and a high-speed police pursuit.

 PNG New Ireland Police Capture Four After Armed Hold-Up in Kavieng

New Ireland Provincial Police Commander Chief Superintendent Albert Beli said the four were arrested after police tracked down a group of armed men responsible for robbing Diamond Brothers Supermarket on Thursday morning.

The suspects were part of a larger group, believed to be more than ten individuals, who escaped with money and store items after the robbery.

Chief Supt Beli said police were alerted shortly after the incident and learned that the offenders had used a taxi as part of their plan.

It is alleged that two suspects pretended to be passengers before restraining the taxi driver and stealing his vehicle. The vehicle was later used to transport the group back into town to carry out the robbery.

After fleeing the supermarket, the suspects allegedly fired firecracker rounds and drove towards Kavieng Airport. Police gave chase and caught up with them near the airstrip.

The suspects abandoned the vehicle and ran, but police managed to arrest four during the pursuit, while others evaded capture.

Chief Supt Beli said parents have a responsibility to speak to young people engaging in criminal activities and warned that technology now plays a major role in police investigations.

“With the increase in technology, no criminals will get away if they think of committing such offenses,” he said.