Madang Provincial Police Commander, Acting Superintendent Robert Baim, has condemned recent media reports alleging that a helicopter was hijacked during the polling process in the Usino-Bundi by-election as false.
The PPC’s condemnation follows a report from a daily paper about a woman who had allegedly hijacked a helicopter carrying a ballot box during the Usino- Bundi by-election in Madang Province.
PPC Baim emphasized that such misinformation is not only inaccurate but also damaging to Papua New Guinea’s international reputation.
“Such unconfirmed reports must cease immediately. Journalists and media outlets have a responsibility to verify information before publishing. False reports undermine our nation’s integrity and credibility,” Acting Superintendent Baim said.
“Reporters must be accountable. Our country’s image depends on truthful and responsible journalism,” he added.
Baim clarified that the helicopter was not hijacked, saying it landed safely with election officials onboard, however, after offloading the ballot boxes and personnel, the aircraft was involved in an incident where the polling team was targeted by armed individuals.
“The helicopter landed at Kembeni in Ward 19, approximately five kilometres from the intended drop-off point in Yaiyo village, Ward 20,” he said.
Baim explained that the reasons for this landing are still under investigation.
“Shortly after landing, a group of armed men, believed to be supporters of a candidate, intercepted the polling team. They forced the Presiding Officer, Nathan Tawi, to sign ballot papers. One official managed to escape and contacted police in Kabiufa, Eastern Highlands.”
He said police responded swiftly with Mobile Squad 13 and the SRU Quick Reaction Force (QRF) successfully rescuing the remaining polling officials.
However, he added that the auxiliary police officer involved and the ballot materials remain missing.
Baim confirmed that, “Nine suspects have been apprehended and are currently in custody here in Madang, undergoing processing by our Investigative Taskforce.
“We are committed to maintaining law,” he said.
