Three Men Jailed for 48 Years for Torture and Murder of a teacher in PNG's Eastern Highlands

 Three men from Eastern Highlands Province have been sentenced to 48 years in prison each for the torture and murder of a school teacher, following a case brought before the National Court. The sentencing has been welcomed by the Papua New Guinea Police as a strong warning against sorcery accusation-related violence.

Commissioner of Police, David Manning, praised the professionalism and dedication of both police investigators and the Public Prosecutor’s office in securing the convictions. “I commend the commitment and professional work of investigators and prosecutors in securing convictions in connection with this disgraceful act of violence,” Manning said.

He emphasized that the ruling sends a clear message to all communities that violent acts under the guise of sorcery have no place in PNG. “The so-called glassmen and glassmeris, who exploit cultural beliefs to justify depravity and violence, are being closely monitored by police,” he said.

The commissioner stressed that all police officers have been directed to continue working diligently to apprehend those responsible for sorcery accusation-related crimes. “Our investigations and prosecutions reflect the judiciary’s firm stance in protecting citizens and punishing offenders,” Manning added.

He said the government has instructed the police to build a force that acts decisively against violent perpetrators while safeguarding law-abiding citizens. “Upholding these objectives and bringing offenders to justice is the duty of all police under my command,” he said.

The strong sentences are seen as part of a broader effort by PNG authorities to eradicate sorcery-related violence and ensure communities are protected from exploitation and abuse.

Commissioner Manning concluded by reaffirming police commitment to community safety, saying, “We will continue to pursue justice for victims and ensure that those who commit such heinous acts face the full force of the law.”