28 Oct 2024 | 08:25 AM UTC
PNG: Increased security measures ongoing in Highlands Region as of Oct. 28 amid tribal violence /update 1
Tight security, blockades, and curfew ongoing in Highlands region, Papua New Guinea, as of Oct. 28 amid tribal violence. Avoid the area.
Increased security measures and roadblocks are affecting multiple interprovincial highways in the Highlands region of Papua New Guinea as of Oct. 28. The tightest security continues in Enga Province. The disruptions are due to escalating tit-for-tat attacks in Enga Province by tribal groups since March 2024; the latest incident in Sirunki Oct. 22 killed at least nine people and injured several others. Further tribal violence, including targeted killings, armed attacks, arson, and looting, is possible in the coming days and could spread to nearby areas. Renewed fighting or mass casualty attacks might prompt authorities to extend emergency orders.
A daily 16:00-06:00 curfew is active along interprovincial routes such as the Okuk Highway, with vehicle movement limited to only approved purposes for at least 30 days. Intensive security deployment and patrols will especially affect routes in the Laiagam, Maip Muritaka/Mulitaka, Sirunki, and Wabag areas of Enga Province, where violent attacks have occurred. Alcohol sale limits and telecommunication and public movement restrictions are probable. However, law enforcement agencies remain generally under-resourced and may not respond effectively.
In Enga Province, a state of emergency remains in effect in Porgera-Paiela, Kompiam-Ambum, and Wapenamanda districts, which gives police powers to use force against armed individuals. The measures have been in place following armed clashes between rival tribes seeking control over local mining resources that began Sept. 11 and resulted in at least 50 deaths. A 18:00-08:00 overnight curfew and an alcohol sales ban is also in effect. Officials have barred nonresidents from entering Porgera and suspended operations at the Porgera Gold Mine.
Locals have set up multiple roadblocks affecting interprovincial traffic between Western Highlands, Southern Highlands, Enga, and Hela provinces. Any attempts to forcibly remove roadblocks are likely to prompt clashes between residents and security forces; the use of sharp weapons and firearms is possible. Prolonged and recurrent disruptions to passenger and goods movement are certain, including to the Porgera gold mine in Enga Province, the PNG LNG project in Hela Province, and the Kutubu Oil project in Southern Highlands Province.
Due to the security environment and road status, businesses in Porgera and surrounding areas may remain closed or halt operations at the first sign of unrest. Flight suspensions are possible, especially in Enga Province, if significant clashes or blockades materialize near airports.
Consider avoiding nonessential travel to the impacted areas until tensions subside. Check with local contacts on the status of roads before driving to or within the affected area; use alternative routes to avoid likely areas for clashes and allow additional time to reach destinations. If clashes break out, leave the area immediately and seek shelter, or remain inside away from windows if indoors. Carry proper identification documents to present at security checks. Follow all security personnel instructions, including curfew orders.
