Papua New Guinea: Increased security continues in Port Moresby as of July 27 amid political violence, criminal activity concerns /update 1

Event

Authorities are maintaining increased security measures in Port Moresby as of July 27 after political violence in the capital prompted business and transport disruptions. Some reports indicate that opportunistic violence and criminal activity occurred in parts of the city July 25. The government has deployed soldiers to bolster security; checkpoints and road closures remain possible in the coming days. Security personnel could search vehicles, especially on main arterial roads. Schools in the National Capital District remain closed until Aug. 1.

The violence prompted business closures and transport disruptions in the capital, though both have been gradually easing. Some businesses could remain closed or reduce hours due to ongoing security concerns. Localized transport disruptions are likely if more violence takes place.

The US Embassy has lifted restrictions on personnel movement in the capital, though other diplomatic missions continue to advise against nonessential activity.

Context

A skirmish occurred outside of Sir John Guise Indoor Complex July 24 after counting monitors for two candidates for the Moresby Northeast seat were displeased with the tally and called on election officials to halt vote counting for one ward due to fraud allegations. Running skirmishes between the groups occurred on nearby roads, with assailants beating and slashing people in the vicinity; some of the violence was reportedly indiscriminate attacks, wounding at least six people. Police later stopped a vehicle and detained nine people with weapons bound for the city.

Advice

Consider avoiding areas near vote counting sites in Port Moresby and limiting nonessential transport in the city until tensions subside. Check with local contacts on the status of roads before driving; use alternative routes to avoid likely areas for clashes and allow additional time to reach destinations. Avoid significant concentrations of people or security personnel to the extent possible due to the potential for violence. If fighting breaks out nearby, immediately depart the area if movement is possible or shelter in place away from any windows if transport is not feasible. Follow all official instructions.