PNG Ports boss killed in brawl

HOUSES in Nagamuifa villages in Goroka town were razed and shops looted in retaliation for the alleged killing of PNG Ports Limited Corporation chief executive officer Fego Kiniafa on Saturday.
Police Commissioner David Manning confirmed the killing but declined to give details of the circumstances surrounding his death because police investigations were continuing.
He also said more information would be released after his immediate family was informed.
The National Airports Corporation also issued a precautionary notice to airlines on Goroka airport.
Provincial Police Commander Supt Michael Welly said Kiniafa and his friend and business partner Conrad Manove were allegedly involved in a brawl at Nagamuifa villages.
He said Kiniafa allegedly shot Manove.
“Manove’s people retaliated and attacked Kiniafa. He died at the scene. Both (men) are dead.”
Welly said at around 3am yesterday, Kiniafa’s people from Bena and Henganofi attacked Nagamuifa villages and burnt houses.
“No deaths have been reported so far, but at least three people were wounded and in a critical condition at the (Goroka) hospital,” he said.
Welly said police were able to restore peace in the afternoon.
The Bena and Henganofi people have returned to their villages.
“It’s quiet now (at around 3pm) but the situation is still tense,” he said.
Police reinforcements were expected to arrive late yesterday.
“I appeal to the people from both sides to lay down their arms and let police do their investigations,” he said.
Governor Simon Sia said it was now a police case and they were seeking the co-operation of the parties involved to have a peace deal reached.
“The safety and wellbeing of everyone is my utmost priority and I urge that we look after ourselves and one another,” he said.
Goroka Chamber of Commerce and Industry president Chris Anders said businesses were concerned about the safety of their staff.
“Not sure if businesses will open tomorrow (today),” he said.
“The Goroka Show was held over the weekend and tourists are still here.
“So not a good impression.”
It is understood with the airport closed, tourists were stranded.
Meanwhile, PNG Ports Corporation board chairman Kepas Wali told staff in a memo on Saturday that Chief Operations Officer Rodney Begley would oversee the office of the chief executive officer meanwhile.