Amnesty International has condemned the burning of houses in Wingima village in Porgera by members of the State of Emergency Call-out Operation.
Amnesty International believes human rights have been violated and investigations must be carried out.
Pacific Researcher at Amnesty International, Kate Schuetze, said the action by police and defense officers is illegal and dangerous.
“Destroying people’s homes and livelihoods in this way violates international laws against forced evictions. All those responsible must be prosecuted.
Any response to illegal mining or other unlawful activities must be proportionate, and meet international standards. Setting ablaze a village is a blatantly excessive response,” added Schuetze.
Amnesty International further calls on the Papua New Guinea authorities to provide emergency assistance to those whose homes were destroyed.
Community leaders have alleged the police were acting in an effort to end illegal mining activities.
The homes were set ablaze during an early morning raid on Friday 6th June in Wingima village, close to Porgera gold mine.
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