Goroka police have arrested one person involved in the recent vandalism of telecommunication cables that have affected business houses and communities in Goroka.
Reports state that these cables were being cut and sold to recycling companies.
Police managed to apprehend the suspect with the assistance of community members, who say the act of vandalizing state property is wrong.
Another suspect was caught by workers of a shop one week ago, whilst attempting to cut the cables for the third time. He was later released on bail.
Under NICTA’s Act passed in 2009, those caught vandalizing telecommunication cables will serve a maximum penalty of 15 years’ imprisonment, or pay a fine of K200,000.
The same incidents have also been experienced in Madang and Kimbe, however, no suspects were caught due to lack of community support.
In Goroka, Telikom technicians are currently working in three different locations to restore these cables.
Technical officer, Nicholas Mili, said telecommunication cables have been vandalised in several locations in Goroka and also along the main highway.
Locals are being urged to take ownership of these services provided and to respect state property.
