By Quinton Alomp – EM TV, Port Moresby
Investigation into the death of two men from Hanuabada village, near Port Moresby is now underway.
Local villagers and eye witnesses are requested to assist police officers during the investigation by providing information.
Police Commissioner, Geoffrey Vaki, says those officers found responsible for the shooting and killing of the two men will be suspended from duty while awaiting the investigation team for an interview.
On that note the Commissioner is appealing to the people of Hanuabada to clear the road block and allow traffic to continue.
The road runs from Port Moresby to the multi-billion Kina Liquefied Natural Gas processing site, northwest of the city. The road also serves the Puma Energy oil refinery at Napa Napa.
It’s been four days now since the incident and business houses in the city are raising concerns that this has affected their operations.
One airline company called EM TV and complained that the road block has made it hard for them to get aviation fuel from the oil refinery at Napa Napa.
Prime Minister, Peter O’Neill has expressed regret and sadness on behalf of the nation to the families of the two deceased.
“I extend the nation’s sympathies to the families of the young men who were killed on Friday,” the Prime Minister said.
“The killing of these men and the wounding of others is a tragedy.
“These two men should be alive today and with their families, and the Government has a responsibility to ensure the investigation is thorough and independent,” Mr O’Neill said.
Government Chief Secretary, Sir Manasupe Zurenuoc condemns the alleged shooting and killing, saying it is becoming a common trend by certain unruly personnel of the PNG Royal Constabulary who has little consideration for the constabulary standing orders.
“This is a concern that has been raised time and time again, not only by the people of Hanuabada but throughout the country,” Sir Manasupe said.
He said “they (police) continue to wantonly and without observing their police standing orders, continue to use firearms with live ammunition at wanton will.”
How the killings happen at Hanuabada village is still not clear but locals claimed it started after a group of police officers entered the village, trying to dispatch the betelnut vendors.
The aftermath of the killings has affected people and businesses further along the coastline towards Papa and Lea-Lea villages.
Tensions are still high in Hanuabada but police are urging the people to free up the road for public use.
On early hours of New Year, 2015, a mother of two was shot at the back of her head at Lae’s back road. Moana Pisimi’s killers are suspected to be police officers. An investigation is still ongoing.
The unlawful discharge of firearms is becoming a concern for the general public. Chief Police Vaki said the use of firearms is “very specific” and officers should be aware of it.
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