By Vicky Baunke
An attempted robbery along the Tuempinka section of the Highlands Highway in Eastern Highlands province has resulted in the death of a public motor vehicle driver.
According to police reports, the passenger coaster bus was traveling from Lae into the Upper Highlands. The incident occurred as it was passing through Kainantu towards Raipinka at Tuempinka village.
The police report states that a group of men descended from higher ground and intercepted the bus. The driver was shot three times after he refused to stop the vehicle when signaled by the suspects to pull over.
Goroka Police Station Commander Chief Inspector Timothy Pomoso reported that the incident was filed at the Goroka Police Station yesterday around 3pm, with the deceased driver’s body still inside the bus. He confirmed that a shot penetrated the windscreen and hit the driver in the chest that caused his death.
Pomoso added that police investigations have commenced, and arrests are expected soon.
Meanwhile, Eastern Highlands Governor Simon Sia extended his condolences to the family of the deceased driver. He assured them that authorities would work closely with the police to apprehend and charge the suspects.
Governor Sia also urged community leaders in the area to assist with police investigations.
