Police patrolling courthouse over threats

National

By ELIAS LARI
POLICE have stepped patrols around the Mt Hagen courthouse after receiving threats that it will be attacked.
Acting provincial police commander Chief Insp David Kongua said it was in response to the killing of eight prisoners who were among the 102 who escaped from Baisu Prison on Monday.
He said police were guarding the courthouse and met court officials yesterday because of the threat.
Kongua said the eight killed were all from Western Highlands.
He suspects that could be the reason behind the threat.
Police have also warned members of the public to stay away from the courthouse if they have no official business there.
“Police will deal with anyone trying to come near the courthouse and I’m appealing to the relatives not take part in (illegal) activities,” he said.
“I have given assurance to the court staff that police will continue to guard the gates and look after the property.”
He urged the staff to continue with their normal duties and not to worry about their safety.
Police are treating the Baisu prison mass breakout seriously and warned people not to create any further problems in the city.