PNGDF investigates alleged assault, death of youth

THE PNG Defence Force is working with police to establish the cause of death of a local at Wipim village in Western, PNGDF chief of staff Captain (Navy) Philip Polewara says.
“The deceased, who was an adult male, passed away on Nov 21 at around 2am, approximately six hours after being allegedly assaulted by soldiers deployed along the southern PNG-Indonesian border,” Polewara said.
He said “reports received from troops revealed that on Nov 20 at around 7.10pm, locals lodged a complaint with the troops who were resting for the night at Wipim Station in Oriomo Bituri, South Fly.
Locals reported to them about a drunk and disorderly youth who earlier destroyed school buildings, chased teachers with an axe and also destroyed a Baptist church building while a gathering was underway.
“Locals also reported that the father of the deceased earlier attempted to stop him but was restrained by villagers.
The troops gave the assurance to respond if the need arose again.
At 8.25pm, the patrol attended to the complaint after their assistance was again sought by the lone village policeman and community leaders following more commotion.
Attempts by soldiers to apprehend the youth result in a struggle as he refused to cooperate, forcing the soldiers to hold him down.
“At this stage, we are waiting for police to conduct investigations and will inform us on how we can assist to conclude all investigations and ensure justice is served,” Polewara said.
Polewara also expressed concern that the absence of effective policing remained the biggest contributor to law and order issues in South Fly and other parts of Western.
“The lack of other key government stakeholders has also forced troops in Weam to perform multiple roles from security to law and order to customs and even immigrations.”