Tribe pays compensation over death of boy in accident

A COMPENSATION of almost K100,000 and more than 100 pigs were paid by a tribe to its neighbours for a young boy’s death in a road accident.
The Yawalte tribe of Kalano village in Imbonggu, Southern Highlands, gave away K97,000, 102 pigs, two cows, two pythons and two cassowaries to the tribesmen of Terry Onno Luther, of Yombi tribe, who died in an accident at Markham Valley in Morobe in February.
The compensation and peace ceremony took place at Kalano village on Friday.
The boy died after a coaster bus, owned by a man from the Yawalte tribe, was involved in the accident.
Peace and good order spokesman Ape Kereme and Kalano ward councillor Perea Waiye commended the Yombi tribe for their patience and self-control which gave them ample time to reach the settlement.
The spokesmen applauded the Yombis for congregating at a peaceful ceremony and their appreciation in accepting the compensation.
“Money, pigs, cars and houses cannot be compared with human life,” Waiye said.
“We are very sorry that a young life has been lost in such a tragic accident.
“But we really appreciate your approach in ensuring that peace and normalcy are maintained.
“This event today orchestrates that we are peace-loving people that respect law and order through history and will do so for generations to come.”
Those who witnessed the compensation ceremony described it as one of the biggest peace settlements to be made in the Imbonggu area.
Bus owner David Rami and his crew, Puksy Line, expressed deep sympathy towards the family of the young boy and thanked his tribesmen and relatives for allowing peace to prevail.
The Yombis made positive remarks and thanked the Yawalte tribe for setting an incredible feat in gathering and preparing pigs and money.