One member of the Tari based mobile squad was shot dead and two others severely injured after they were attacked at a roadblock at Tokio bridge outside of Tari Town.
While their names have not been officially released, the deceased officer has been identified a sergeant and an MS9 section commander who had served for several years in Hela Province.
The officers were on their way back from to Koroba with the Provincial Administrator, William Bando, when they were attacked by members of a crowd who had gathered for a compensation payment.
Mr. Bando whose vehicle was also attacked said the group was also armed with high powered weapons.
“They stoned out vehicles and bullets penetrated out vehicle. We were able to get out.”
One officer was shot in the knee with an assault rifle and the other is reported to have suffered knife wounds. Two weapons were also stolen from the police.
The body of the sergeant will be airlifted to Mt. Hagen today.
