PNG Police Intensify Porgera Security Operation After Tribal Killings

 A major police operation in Porgera, Enga Province, has resulted in the arrest of 24 men and the deaths of two armed suspects as authorities move to contain violence following a tribal conflict that killed nine people and destroyed houses.

Police Commissioner David Manning said the operation was directed at a violent criminal group, with specialist officers conducting covert surveillance before confronting the suspected offenders. Those arrested face charges carrying a minimum of 50 years’ imprisonment upon conviction.

Mr Manning said police would not allow armed groups to continue threatening residents or disrupting the safety of communities.

Police Commissioner David Manning

He called on individuals involved in tribal fighting to abandon violence and surrender illegal firearms under the Government's amnesty programme.

The Commissioner warned that police were monitoring the movements of armed criminals and collecting intelligence to identify those who continued to operate outside the law.

“Those holding illegal weapons now face a clear choice to surrender them under the amnesty and step away from violence, or be pursued, arrested and prosecuted in accordance with the law,” he said.

Mr Manning said people across Papua New Guinea deserved to live without fear of armed intimidation, adding that offenders would face the penalties prescribed by law if found guilty.

He commended the Upper Highlands Special Operations team and tactical police personnel for their role in the Porgera operation, describing their work as disciplined and professional.

According to Mr Manning, the Constabulary's improved operational capacity had strengthened its ability to track suspects, conduct surveillance and respond to high-risk incidents.

He said police would continue working to remove illegal firearms from communities and bring alleged offenders before the courts.

“The Government has provided every reasonable opportunity through the firearms amnesty. Those who reject that opportunity must accept the consequences of their decisions,” Mr Manning said.