Southern Highlands Governor, William Powi raised concerns onthe negative comments spiraling fromthe international media.
Governor Powi saidthe negative publicity was affectingthe tourism industry and wantedthe government to intervene.
Governor Powi was concerned thatthe actions of a minority group has tatteredthe image of a country’s that is loving and caring.
He was concerned thatthe tourism industry was a developing industry and such negative publicity has disreputethe country’s image.
“It is an irreparable act that is making headlines. This is a very sad scenario where not all Papua New Guineas are involved, but it’s attracting negative image and comments that is damagingthe image of this country,” said Powi.
Prime Minister Peter O’Neill saidthe incident was an unfortunate one, as it occurred atthe Beack Cat Trail that holds rich memories of early gold explorers inthe early 1930’s.
He told parliament that more police manpower have been deployed on site to assist with investigations.
“Police from Lae andthe Port Moresby Mobile Squad are now inthe area and carrying out investigation,” O’Neill said.
Meanwhile, in parliament yesterday, O’Neill expressed his sympathies and condolences to victims’ families and those who were injured in this incident.
He futher assuredthe House thatthe Australian government has promised to deploy Australian police personnel to Papua New Guineaunder a short term arrangement.
The first batch of Australian Police personnel will arrive inthe country on Novermber 4.
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