3 dead in Porgera tribal fight

By REBECCA KUKU
WOMEN are being abducted, raped and murdered in the ongoing Aiyala-Normali tribal war amid reports of a firearms build-up in Pogera-Paiela.
Enga police commander George Kakas told The National yesterday that law and order issues had increased in the past week in the new Progera Paiela district.
“Two women were murdered, one was abducted and raped during a car theft in Palipaka.
“The tribal fight between Aiyala and Normali is continuing, with another man murdered in Paiam town on Monday night.
“We are also receiving reports of a firearms build-up in the electorate. Our intelligence officers are still working on establishing if the arms build-up is 2022 General Election-related or due to the ongoing tribal fight in the province.
“We are working closely with the Porgera police station commander to address the firearm issue.
“But there has been a build-up of firearms, not just in Porgera-Paiela, but in the whole province. Since taking office last week, I have been working closely with police station commanders and community leaders to address the issue.
“We will not be negotiating with anyone. If you are in possession of illegal firearms and ammunition, you will be arrested and charged,” he added.
Meanwhile, Porgera Chamber of Commerce and Industry President Nick Pakea has urged the Government to intervene and address the ongoing law and order issues in Porgera.
“All key stakeholders responsible must work together to address the issue,” he added.