Papua New Guinea: Lingering heightened security likely in parts of country following rioting in multiple urban centers Jan. 10-11 /update 3

Officials will likely maintain a heightened security posture in parts of Papua New Guinea over the coming days after rioting impacted multiple urban centers in the country Jan. 10-11. The violence began after law enforcement officers and other civil servants staged a work stoppage and an associated protest at Parliament House in Port Moresby on Jan. 10 to denounce a pay cut that officials attributed to an administrative error. Hundreds of people reportedly engaged in rioting and looting in the capital after the law enforcement officers went off duty, including in the Boroko, Gerehu, Gordon, Hohola, Konedobu, Sabama, Tokorara, and Waigini districts. Related unrest and violence were also reported in other towns and cities across the country, including Kokopo and Rabaul, East New Britain Province, and Lae, Morobe Province. The rioting killed nine people in Port Moresby and seven others in Lae.

Although authorities had largely restored order in affected areas by late Jan. 11, Prime Minister James Marape declared a 14-day state of emergency in the capital the same day and signaled that more than 1,000 soldiers were on standby to respond to any further unrest. Tensions reportedly remained high in Port Moresby as of late Jan. 11.

Additional incidents of violent unrest, including rioting, vandalism, and looting, are possible in the country over the short term. Authorities could impose road closures, public gathering bans, curfews, or other restrictive measures to address any security threats. Clashes between local communities and security forces cannot be ruled out. Security forces may attempt to forcibly disperse any disruptive gatherings that materialize. Transport and business disruptions are likely in areas that are subject to heightened security measures or rioting; businesses may close at the first sign of unrest. Any further unrest that occurs could also cause flight disruptions, including delays and cancellations, at airports in affected areas.