Porgera sees drop in violence

 PORGERA has seen a drop in the number of cases of violence because women are more aware of their legal and human rights, a welfare officer said.

Porgera District Women’s Association welfare liaison officer Evelyn Sap was speaking during the national haus krai march at Porgera station in Enga on May 15. 

In the last two years the welfare liaison office registered more than 260 counseling and referral cases. 

Sap said many women reported violence and men realised that physical and sexual assaults were criminal offences. 

“The haus krai event saw women from different walks of life gather in solidarity and called for an end to violence against women. 

“The event was supported by men, students, police, representatives from non-governmental organisations, including staff of Barrick (Niugini) Ltd. 

Porgera Primary School teacher Alousina Buina said: “Children of Porgera support the call to end violence because they want to become professionals to bring change to their families and society.” 

“We, as parents, must provide the best conducive environment for them,” Buina said. 

Police station commander Snr Sgt Simon Mek said police were enforcing the new laws on violence against women. 

Mek discouraged women from entertaining compensation payments and for people to report cases of violence. 

“If you ask for compensation, the problem will still exist. 

“You must value your life. If you are abused, report the incident to the police,” he said.