Papua New Guinea: US Embassy tightens employee security after assault Oct. 13

Event

The US Embassy in Port Moresby announced the implementation of heightened security measures for embassy employees in Papua New Guinea on Friday, October 13, after the recent assault of an American citizen. Local media sources reported that a US Embassy official was robbed at gunpoint at a police checkpoint in Port Moresby near the Harbourside restaurant area on Friday, October 6. Under the new measures, US Embassy personnel are prohibited from using personal vehicles between 22:00 and 05:00 (local time). As of October 10, the incident was still under investigation by the US Embassy.

Context

The crime rate in Papua New Guinea is one of the highest in the world, per the latest reports from the US Overseas Security Advisory Council (OSAC). Among the cities most acutely affected by high crime rates are Port Moresby, Lae, Madang, Mount Hagen, and Goroka, but crime is common throughout the country.

Additionally, Westerners have been victims of violent crimes in the country, including gang rape, carjackings, home invasions, kidnappings, and armed robberies. In Port Moresby, robberies are not uncommon around Parliament Haus on weekends. Incidents of petty crime, including pickpocketing and bag-snatching, are common in crowded public places.

Advice

Individuals present in Papua New Guinea are advised to remain highly vigilant, and to carry a mobile phone at all times in case of emergency. Port Moresby police can be reached by dialing "000." Individuals are also advised to remain alert to suspicious behavior while at police checkpoints. In general, remain vigilant, especially in crowded public places, and follow instructions issued by local authorities; avoid traveling alone, especially at night.