Properties destroyed as soldiers run berserk

By JACKLYN SIRIAS
A SOLDIER died and more than 10 houses and properties destroyed following a clash in Port Moresby on Saturday night between squatter settlers and soldiers.
National Capital District Metropolitan Superintendent Perou N’dranou trouble was it was sparked by a traffic accident involving soldiers.
“It is alleged that the soldiers were drunk and driving at high speed when they hit two people at the side of the road in Hohola, in Port Moresby,” N’dranou said.
He said the victims’ relatives retaliated stabbed a soldier who later died at Port Moresby General Hospital. He said soldiers then burnt down houses and tuckershops next to the road to Murray Barracks.
Police are investigations. They are expected to meet with senior military officers today to discuss the matter.
According to a resident who requested anonymity, the soldiers’ vehicle almost a hit a civilian when it turned in from the main road to enter the street.
He alleged that three soldiers got out of the vehicle and tried to attack a civilian, but bystanders came to his aid and attacked the soldiers. The soldiers left and returtned and burnt more than 10 houses, four tuckershops, and vehicles.
Defence Force chief of staff Captain (navy) Philip Polewara confirmed the incident was a result of a traffic accident.
“Four military personnel from Murray Barracks were involved. One of them died from the knife wound during the attack,” he said.
Polewara said they were working with police to have the matter resolved.