Youths stone police vehicle during clash between settlers

A POLICE vehicle was shot at and its rear window stoned and shattered in a fight between Matalau and Nordup ward settlers in East New Britain’s Gelegele on Monday.
According to police reports, the fight started in the afternoon when a Nordup youth was robbed by Matalau youths at a market.
The victim then mobilised his friends and returned to the robbery scene and attacked innocent people.
Sporadic fighting continued and policemen were at the scene to monitor and contain the violence waged between youths aged 14 and 22.
Police have recorded statements from witnesses and were expected to make arrests soon.
“We gathered all the villagers from both sides yesterday afternoon and gathered sufficient information.
“We have identities of those involved in the fighting,” a policeman said.
He said some suspects had shot at the police vehicle and stoned it.
“It is fortunate that none of us were injured.
“The damage is about K3,000.”
Police are appealing to community leaders and ward members to help arrest those involved in the fighting.