Mother missing in floods, gardens, homes destroyed

 By PISAI GUMAR

A MOTHER of three was swept away by floodwaters while a man sustained severe injuries as the Wisini River in Biaru, Bulolo, Morobe, burst its banks.

Damaged in the flooding were two trade stores, homes, food gardens and animals.

Morobe disaster response director Charley Masange confirmed the report of damage. A Manolos Aviation medivac helicopter was arranged to airlift the casualty to Angau Memorial Hospital yesterday. 

Relief supplies, including tarpaulins, cooking and eating utensils, were provided. 

Community leader Koiro Pae said from the Biaru base camp that heavy rain had caused flooding and landslides upstream. He said when people were moving to higher ground, the mother, identified as Tanep Kai, was caught inside the house by the floodwaters.

The man, identified as Yae Tingkeso, was rescued but had sustained severe injuries.

“We are still searching for the woman. We do not know whether she was buried by mud and debris or swept away by the flood,” Pae said.

Manolos Aviation medivac nurse Naomi Pamaraka said Tingkeso, 65, was badly injured with suspected broken ribs.

Wau Rural president Noel Kipindu could not be reached for comment.

Pae said they would assist the people after officers on the ground had assessed the damage.