11 Jan 2021 | 05:13 AM UTC
PNG: Protest ongoing at Kavieng Airport in New Ireland as of Jan. 11
Protesters gathering at Kavieng Airport in New Ireland, Papua New Guinea, Jan. 11. Flights canceled; ground transport disruptions likely.
Event
Dozens of protesters have gathered at Kavieng Airport (KVG) in New Ireland Province as of Jan. 11. The demonstrators are reportedly landowners demanding payment of levy for the land where the airport is situated.
The airline PNG Air (CG) has canceled its flights serving KVG through Jan. 11 due to the protest. Additional flight cancelations at KVG are possible in the coming days. Authorities will probably increase security at the airport as a precaution. Localized ground transport disruptions are likely, especially if demonstrators occupy nearby streets. While reports indicate the action has remained peaceful, clashes between protesters and security personnel are possible. Mass arrests may occur if officials consider the gathering to violate coronavirus disease (COVID-19) restrictions.
KVG is around 210 km (130 miles) west-northwest of Lihir Island.
Advice
Confirm flights to and from KVG in the coming days. Avoid KVG and its surrounding areas as a precaution. Plan for localized ground transport disruptions. If violence occurs nearby, immediately depart the area. Heed all official security and transport advisories.
