Communities Displaced After Deadly Sorcery-Linked Violence at Lake Kutubu, PNG

Communities Displaced After Deadly Sorcery-Linked Violence at Lake Kutubu, PNG/Photo supplied

Villagers from Wasami Island and neighbouring Lake Kutubu in Southern Highlands province, Papua New Guinea communities have been forced to abandon their homes after violent clashes and arson attacks swept through the region, destroying settlements and sending frightened families into the wilderness.

The destruction followed the death of Kutubu Special Purposes Authority chairman Moses Meiwayo, whose passing became the catalyst for unrest that has now disrupted community life, education and the safety of residents across the affected area.

Information emerging from Lake Kutubu suggests Mr Meiwayo became ill shortly after attending a funeral on Wasami Island before his sudden death.

Following the tragedy, relatives and settlers reportedly accused local inhabitants of practising sorcery, causing tensions to rise rapidly before violence broke out against several communities.

Witness accounts indicate organised groups moved through villages burning houses and valuable possessions, leaving widespread destruction in their wake. Kei Point village and Seraga village were particularly affected as homes were engulfed by fire and residents escaped with little more than the clothes they were wearing.

Families have since sought shelter deep in the surrounding jungle, with many women and children remaining displaced as authorities attempt to establish their whereabouts and provide assistance.

Kei Point Primary School remains physically standing despite the attacks, however, education services have effectively stopped because the community has been emptied by the violence. Provincial education authorities are now expected to formally suspend classes until residents can safely return.

Officials are continuing to investigate the extent of the damage while peace restoration efforts remain underway across Wasami Island and the wider Lake Kutubu area as communities wait for stability to return.