19-2-2024 (PORT MORESBY) In a horrifying escalation of long-standing violence between warring tribes in Papua New Guinea’s remote highlands, 64 bloodied bodies were discovered along a stretch of road near the town of Wabag on Sunday. The victims, believed to be tribal fighters, were ambushed by a rival group in the early hours of the morning.
The rugged and lawless area, located about 600km northwest of the capital Port Moresby, has been plagued by tit-for-tat mass killings between rival tribes such as Sikin, Ambulin, Kaekin, and others for years.
Police images from the scene depict a gruesome scene of stripped and bloodied bodies lying by the roadside and piled onto the back of a flatbed truck. Some victims had limbs hacked and were left naked by the road, with beer bottles or cans placed on their chests.
Assistant Commissioner of Police Samson Kua stated that ongoing gunfights were reported in nearby valleys, and bodies were still being recovered from the bushland near the road.
Escalating Cycle of Violence:
Clashes between tribes in Papua New Guinea’s highlands have historical roots, but the influx of mercenaries and automatic weapons has intensified the violence. The gunmen involved in this incident used a range of weaponry, including SLR, AK-47, M4, AR-15, and M16 rifles, as well as pump-action shotguns and homemade firearms.
Patrick Peka, the acting police commander for the province where the killings occurred, revealed that many of the victims were believed to be mercenaries – individuals roaming the countryside offering assistance to settle scores between tribes. Peka expressed frustration, stating that leaders and educated elites supplying arms and engaging gunmen from other regions hinder law enforcement efforts.
Despite the government’s attempts to control the violence through suppression, mediation, and gun amnesties, the situation remains dire. The military has deployed about 100 troops to the area, but their impact has been limited, and security services continue to face challenges in handling the escalating violence.
Calls for Intervention:
Opponents of Prime Minister James Marape’s government are calling for increased police deployment and the resignation of the force’s commissioner. Papua New Guinea’s rising population since 1980 has exacerbated land and resource strains, deepening tribal rivalries.
Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese expressed deep concern over the incident, describing it as “very disturbing.” He highlighted Australia’s commitment to providing support for training police officers and ensuring security in Papua New Guinea. The gruesome discovery underscores the urgent need for effective measures to address the root causes of tribal violence in the region.
