Threat shuts Lae schools

Main Stories, National
Source:

The National, Thursday 25th April 2013

 By GABRIEL LAHOC

SCHOOLS in Lae city have been forced to close indefinitely because of the threat of violence in the municipality.

The Morobe education division ordered the suspension of classes from Tuesday as a precautionary measure in light of brewing clashes between public vehicle operators from Western Highlands and the people of Morobe.

Berei Kalo, a senior professional assistant for education services, confirmed the directive from education  authorities.

It follows attacks on passenger vehicles owned by Western Highlanders in the city after a student died when he was pushed off a PMV bus last Saturday.

The seminary student was trying to stop the bus crew from harassing two girls in the bus. He was pushed out of the bus as his wife and baby watched.

Kalo said the suspension was for the safety of students in elementary, primary and secondary schools as the city faced a transport problem.

“It is only for a short period of time and only for Lae schools. Schools outside the city can continue classes,” he said.

Some students were forced to return home on Monday because the bus operators refused to operate following the attacks on them.