By Theckla Gunga – EM TV, Port Moresby
An independent coronial inquiry has been set up to investigate the Hanuabada killings.
Chief Secretary, Sir Manasupe Zurenuoc, says the state will hire a lawyer to look into this case.
The idea of setting up an independent investigation team to investigate the alleged shooting deaths of the two Hanuabada men by police was well backed up, by the national government through the Office of the Chief Secretary.
In a meeting between families of the two deceased and state representatives in Port Moresby today, Chief Secretary Sir Manasupe announced that the government aims to improve strengthening the law and order in the country; thus it is important that an inquiry be established.
Since the killings, villagers have openly expressed their distrust in police.
They have set up their own investigation team consisting of three lawyers.
This team will also conduct interviews and carry out a separate investigation.
When responding to the Chief Secretary’s announcement, Hanuabada spokesperson Lohia Samuel said he accepted the state’s decision to set up an independent inquiry.
He said, while the immediate families of the deceased have forgiven the shooters, they still want justice to prevail.
Meanwhile a confirmed budget has not been set up yet to fund the inquiry, but the state will be financing it through the Prime Minister’s department.
The inquiry is set to begin next month.
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