16 Killed In Violent Riots In Papua New Guinea

Africa's Diaspora Communities | Papua New Guinea January 11, 2024

At least 16 people have been killed in violent riots in Papua New Guinea (PNG), reported some media on January 11, 2024.

According to the reports, the riots began on January 10, 2024, after police officers withdrew their services as part of a strike action by the country's security personnel, over a pay dispute. The rioters may have, therefore, taken advantage of the security vacuum created by absence of police patrol, say the reports.

The riots are said to have entailed looting and setting ablaze shops and businesses in the capital Port Moresby as well as in the second largest city of Lae in Morobe Province. Of those killed in the riots, 9 were in Port Moresby and 7 in Lae.

In response to the devastating riots, the PNG Government is is said to have now declared a nationwide state of emergency with 1000 army troops on alert and ready for action in case the situation escalates.

_______________________

© 2015 - 2024 Africauptodate. All Rights Reserved