Domestic terrorists declared war with state: Manning

THE attack on police and burning of 13 police houses in Milne Bay last week is an act of terrorism and will be dealt with swiftly and strongly, says Police Commissioner David Manning.
“These are not your common criminals but are terrorists and will be dealt with as such,” he said adding that the terrorists had declared war on the Independent State of PNG,” Manning said.
“We will bring the full force of the government down hard on these terrorists.
“All resources at our disposal as well as manpower will be committed to hunting them down.
“They can run, but they cannot hide. Their days are numbered,” he said, adding the PNG Defence Force has been called out to help police hunt them.
Manning said he had directed acting deputy commissioner of Police and chief of operations Donald Yamasombi to use all available police resources and manpower to flush out and capture the terrorists.
“Two police mobile squads, including the Air Tactical Unit and Water Police will be deployed.
“They will be joined by additional manpower from the PNG Defence Force.
“They have gone too far and must be stopped. People who are supporting these terrorists must understand that the terrorists are undermining and threatening the national security of PNG and must be stopped,” the commissioner said.
Meanwhile, Alotau MP Charles Abel has asked for the declaration of a state of emergency in the province.
“There are ongoing issues that are violence-related,” Abel said.
“After the unfortunate incident on Friday night, we are looking at the state of emergency option.
“It is being processed by the Government now and I am supporting that option.”
A man was reported dead and others injured, including two police officers, after the exchange of fire with police from Thursday night to early Friday morning.
The gang members were allegedly led by wanted criminals Tommy Maeva Baker and Michael Yawi.
Police managed to secure the town of Alotau after driving out the gang members estimated to be more than 50.
Shops were broken into allegedly by the thugs, hotels were targeted and the Water Police barracks burned down.