Mangape urges miner to help in law and order issues

 BARRICK Gold, developer of the world class Porgera mine, has been urged to work closely with police and Enga provincial authorities to curb the escalating law and order problems in the area.

Local MP Nixon Mangape said the Porgera-Paiala area was known as a fighting zone and a breeding ground for illegal miners, drugs addicts and other criminals.

“I call on Barrick to work with the police and provincial authorities to curb crime,” Mangape said. 

“I’m not happy with a new community peace and justice office set up by the mine. 

“This funding should be given to the police and law and order officials.”

Barrick community relations manager Timothy Andambo denied  Mangape’s claim, saying the new committee was set up to assist police and relevant authorities on law and order issues.

District administrator Mori Iarume said it was important for all parties to work together. 

Provincial police commander Supt Philip Welia added that handling tribal fights and crime was not an easy task, which needed the community’s support.