Talks to free hostages

BY REBECCA KUKU
POLICE, through an intermediary, are negotiating the release of hostages including two foreigners held by armed men in a remote part of the highlands region.
Deputy police commissioner Dr Philip Mitna, the chief of police operations, said the armed men, believed to be from Komo in Hela, were demanding a specified amount of money from the Government.
“The RPNGC is negotiating with the criminals through an intermediary, and are treating this matter as serious,” he said.
The hostages include anthropology academics, students and local guides. They are being held near Fogoma’iu village at the border of Southern Highlands, Hela and Western.
He also confirmed that the hostages included two foreign citizens. It is believed that one is from Australia and the other from New Zealand.
A spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade in Zealand told The National yesterday: “We are aware of this case. For privacy reasons no further information will be provided.”
Mitna said the armed men were returning from Kamusie on Sunday when they saw the group and took them hostage.
He confirmed that their initial demand included money which must be paid before the hostages could be released.
Mitna said: “Contact is being maintained with the relevant High Commissions as this matter unfolds.”
He said police and villagers were working together to ensure the safe release of the hostages.
Meanwhile, Police Commissioner David Manning says police are authorised to use the full force of the law to secure the hostages and arrest the captors.
“Security personnel are operating within their set rules of engagement in dealing with these criminals, with the safety of the innocent being their top priority,” he said.
“Our specialised security force personnel will use whatever means necessary against criminals, up to and including the use of lethal force, to provide for the safety and security of the people being held,” Manning said.