Papua New Guinea: There has been a fierce fight between the tribes in the Enga province of Papua New Guinea. 30 people are reported to have been killed in this violence. Many people have also been injured in this violence, along with this hundreds of women and children have left their homes. It is believed that this fight started after a dispute between illegal miners. Radio New Zealand reported that this conflict took place between two tribes living near the Porgera gold mine. This clash was going on for the last four days.
Radio New Zealand reported that the violence escalated on Saturday night when one group attacked another group living closest to the mine site. Several more people were killed in the attack. A senior member of the Porgera community, speaking on condition of anonymity, said, “This level of violence is terrifying. People are being killed randomly and criminal elements have taken control of the town.” Retaliatory attacks continued on Sunday morning and several buildings were set on fire. Operations at the Porgera mine have been halted.
people taking shelter here and there
The workers working in the mine have been ordered to move to the mine’s squash court for safety. Many have said that their lives are in danger. Women and children living near the mine have fled to the local workers’ camp area. Dozens of people have taken refuge in the Mountain Lodge, a motel located near the mine site. Others were taken away in tipper trucks away from the fighting.
Fewer security personnel
There are currently 122 security personnel deployed at the scene, including mobile squads and members of the PNG Defence Force. Lawyer and community leader Lakis Ruing said police and military personnel were outnumbered and unable to adequately stop the fighting. ‘We need leadership. We need the government to send more police and military to stop the fighting.’
Curfew imposed in the area
Late Saturday night, Police Commissioner David Manning issued emergency orders for the use of force along with additional police force to protect vital infrastructure and residents who are being attacked by illegal miners. The commissioner said, ‘Porgera Station has been declared a prohibited area for all non-residents. A curfew will be in place in the Porgera Valley between 6 am and 8 pm and it will be enforced without any exception.’
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