PNG government asked to protect people after ‘barbaric massacre’ in Angola

An aerial view of East Sepik Province in the Sepik River region of Papua New Guinea.
photo: Dozier Mark/Hemis Image credit: AFP

The Commonwealth Bar Association called on the Papua New Guinea government to take steps to protect its citizens and bring the perpetrators to justice. Deadly violence breaks out in three remote villages Delivering justice in the Momas area.

Police said Five of the 30 people involved in the massacre The suspect in the July 16 shooting has been arrested.

However, according to reports, the gang leaders are armed and are still at large.

The conflict has reportedly displaced nearly 400 people, and East Sepik Governor Allan Bird said tribal violence in the country continues to worsen.

The Kerala Liberation Army said in a statement that the “brutal killing” of 26 people, including women and children, in Angolam district two weeks ago was “totally unacceptable and a gross violation of human rights”.

“The oldest and simplest reason for government to exist is as a protector: to protect citizens from violence,” the report said.

It expressed its agreement with the Papua New Guinea Bar Association that the rule of law must be enforced to protect the people of Papua New Guinea and their human rights.

The CLA urged “law enforcement agencies to act swiftly” and “called for a collective effort to achieve justice and ensure communities can live safely without fear of violence.”

The group added that all necessary measures should be taken to ensure that the rule of law is respected.

Survivors in despair

At the same time, about 200 massacre survivors arrived at Angolam station, desperately seeking help.

The United Nations is assisting with emergency relief and setting up six temporary care centres.

Five children were identified as “unaccompanied” and their parents were presumed dead or missing.

Police Regional Operations Deputy Commissioner Samson Kua said they were continuing investigations and speaking to survivors to identify the criminal gang.

this The Courier Angolan MP Salio Waipo reportedly claimed he knew the men involved and asked them to turn themselves in.

RNZ Pacific Radio’s Papua New Guinea correspondent Scott Waide said while extra police had been deployed, villagers who witnessed the violence were assured they would be protected if they chose to give evidence in court.