PNG Police Raid Uncovers Alleged Human Trafficking Operation In Port Moresby

 PNG Police Raid Uncovers Alleged Human Trafficking Operation In Port Moresby/Photo supplied

A police operation in Papua New Guinea has led to the rescue of 39 Indonesian nationals allegedly held against their will at a residence in central Port Moresby, with four Chinese nationals taken into custody.

The operation was carried out this morning after investigators from the RPNGC Transnational Crime Directorate obtained intelligence pointing to suspected people-smuggling activities at the three-bedroom house.

Among those rescued were five women and 34 men, police said.

Investigators allege the Indonesians were brought into the network after responding to employment opportunities promoted through social media.

Instead of the jobs they had reportedly been promised, police allege the individuals were confined at the property.

Search warrants were executed as part of the operation, which was led by Deputy Commissioner of Police, Special Operations, Donald Yamasombi.

DCP Yamasombi said preliminary investigations suggested the suspects could have links to a broader criminal network extending beyond Papua New Guinea.

“Initial inquiries indicate that those detained may be connected to a wider transnational human trafficking syndicate operating between Southeast Asia and the Pacific,” he said.

The operation is now expected to expand beyond the Port Moresby property as investigators work with police agencies in other countries.

“The RPNGC will work closely with international policing partners to support efforts to identify and dismantle any offshore components of this criminal network,” DCP Yamasombi said.

He said international cooperation would remain important in tracking those behind the alleged trafficking activities.

“Human trafficking is a grave crime that police agencies around the world take seriously. The RPNGC will continue working with international partners to identify offenders, dismantle criminal networks and protect vulnerable people.”

Police Commissioner David Manning said those responsible would face prosecution if investigations established their involvement.

“There will be no leniency for those who traffic and exploit people. RPNGC investigators are committed to ensuring that every offender identified through this investigation is prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law, and we will seek penalties that reflect the seriousness of these crimes,” Manning said.

He said investigators were examining the alleged network's operations both inside Papua New Guinea and overseas.

“Investigators are tracing the movements and connections of the alleged traffickers, including members of the network operating both within Papua New Guinea and overseas. We expect this work to lead to further arrests.”

Authorities have placed the rescued Indonesians under care while arrangements are made with the Indonesian Embassy.

“Consular support has been provided to all 39 victims. Papua New Guinea Government agencies, including health professionals and the Department of Foreign Affairs, are also providing the necessary assistance,” Manning said.

He said the alleged trafficking operation was a matter of concern but acknowledged the work of police investigators who located the victims.

“It is deeply disturbing that such alleged crimes could occur in our country. At the same time, we commend the professional RPNGC investigators that located these victims and brought them to safety.”

“Papua New Guinea is founded on Christian values, respect for the law and, above all, respect for the dignity of every person.”

The investigation remains active, with police indicating that additional arrests could follow as officers trace the alleged international connections.