16 Jul 2024 | 03:52 AM UTC
Papua New Guinea: Road blockade ongoing along Highlands Highway in Mingende, Chimbu Province, as of July 16
Road blockade ongoing along Highlands Highway in Mingende, Chimbu Province, Papua New Guinea, as of July 16. Clashes possible.
Residents are blocking traffic along the Highlands Highway near Mingende, Chimbu Province, as of July 16. Reports indicate roadblocks at several locations, including Guo Wandi and Gon Kond junctions, Mingende Kaglma, and Mingende Kombuglomongo, affecting ground transport between Mingende and Kundiawa. The action is to protest the nonpayment and misuse of disaster funds by the Chimbu Provincial Government. Additional and unannounced roadblocks may materialize across the province in the coming days.
Authorities have yet to deploy security personnel to the affected area; there are no indications when the road blockades will clear. Clashes may break out quickly if police attempt to disperse the gatherings forcibly. Localized transport disruptions will almost certainly persist along the Mingende section of Highlands Highway through at least July 17. Reports indicate residents traveling toward Lae City and Madang Province are stranded in Kundiawa Town.
Mingende is approximately 10 km (6 miles) northwest of Kundiawa.
Consider avoiding nonessential travel to the affected area until tensions subside. Allow additional time to reach destinations and seek alternative routes to circumvent the incident site. Check with local contacts on road conditions before driving near Kundiawa, Mingende, and surrounding areas. Do not attempt to navigate blockades; wait for authorities to clear them. If clashes break out nearby, immediately depart the area if movement is possible or shelter in place away from any windows if transport is not feasible. Heed all security personnel instructions.
