The Tolokuma Landowners Association has clarified that the killing of a Goilala man at 15-Mile, outside Port Moresby, has no connection to the operations of the Tolokuma Mine.
Association Chairman George Gusi said that while they strongly condemn the incident, they will allow the law to take its course and ensure those responsible are held accountable.
He made the clarification following reports that Tolokuma landowners were threatening to shut down mining operations on their land.
“I represent the people of Tolokuma, and I want to clarify that the killing occurred outside the mining operation area and has nothing to do with the mine,” Gusi said.
“The matter is for the law to deal with, not the developer, Tolokuma or anyone else.
“The mining project belongs to the country and all its people, including my landowners who benefit from the project. I want to make it clear to the investors and other business partners operating the Tolokuma Mine that there is no issue against the mine.”
Gusi said the association would assist the affected Goilala people in resolving the conflict involving a minority group from Hela Province at 15-Mile through lawful means.
“We stand together because they are our people. I want the Hela leaders to work together with us to resolve this matter,” he said.
He also commented on recent remarks by Central Governor Rufina Peter, who reportedly stated that the conflict could affect mining operations. Gusi said those comments were made without proper consultation.
“I am clarifying that the killing has nothing to do with the mine,” he said.
Gusi thanked Governor Peter for raising the concerns of the Goilala people and said they would await the outcome of the police investigation.
