Police nab escapee in Kokopo

AN escapee who had attempted to attack police officers with a bush knife over the Independence weekend, was shot and injured at Banana Camp area in Kokopo, East New Britain.
Police commander Sr Insp Joseph Tabali said Ben Tobung, 30, from Arowe, West New Britain, a wanted criminal and escapee from the Kerevat Prison, was shot on his knees following a police raid at the Banana Camp area where he was hiding.
“Acting on a tip-off police closed in on him,” Tabali said. “Realising that he was surrounded, he used a bush knife to attack police officers.
“He was taken to the hospital for treatment. As soon as he recovers police will lay charges on him.”
Meanwhile, police have charged a man with murder after his father was killed.
Tabali said police have charged Kamba Avan, 23, of Putput village, in South Coast, accusing him of throwing a stone at his father causing his death. The incident happened between 7am and 8am on Thursday.
Police said the deceased, Avan Bokon, had woken up the suspect to go and heat the copra in the shed around 6am. The son, who was allegedly under the influence of marijuana, punched his father in the face and ran into the bushes.