Kundiawa hit hard by lawlessness

By MALUM NALU
New Simbu administrator Michael Temai yesterday admitted that the province has been hit by a spate of lawlessness in the provincial capital Kundiawa.
They relate to the governor’s election petition case as well as other incidents.
Temai appealed for calm as police reinforcements were called in from nearby provinces.
“Chimbu is a peace-loving province. But only recently, we were affected by several situations on a nearly simultaneous basis,” Temai said.
“Those situations include the court decision on Gumine Open, governor’s election petition case, appointment of new provincial administrator, Gembogl failed peace mediation on election incident, and fatal road accident on Gembogl Road.
“Those are the situations that appear to blend in together to ignite the continuous lawless behavior in Kundiawa. Criminals and opportunists have taken advantage of the situation.
“Such behavior is affecting the town, business houses, women and children, people travelling on the highway and many of our good citizens. We have to deal with the criminals and quickly secure the town again.”
Temai said he had talked to local police and they were regrouping and mobilising.
He said Assistant-Commissioner Nema Mondiai in Mt Hagen had agreed to send Mobile Squad 8 back to Chimbu.
“I am assuring the general public and the business houses in Kundiawa that our local police, though they are limited in manpower and operational resources, are already mobilised and taking action,” Temai said. “They will be facing the criminals head on. Anyone taking advantage of various issues and creating lawlessness in Kundiawa will be dealt with .
“I am also calling on community leaders, leaders in business and politicians to understand the current issues and unite towards restoring law and order.
“Public servants are tirelessly still on active duty and continuing to provide basic services, despite intimidation and harassment.
“I am grateful that they are still committed to their jobs in serving the public. I am aware of various injuries sustained by local police personnel in the line of duty.
“I extend my sincerely apology and thank you for standing in the name of public safety and for Chimbu people.”