Police in the Chuave District of Chimbu Province have launched an investigation into the brutal killing of a Seventh Day Adventist (SDA) pastor, following accusations of sorcery in Kue village in West Elimbari.
The incident occurred last on 12 August 2025 when a group of villagers accused the pastor of causing the death of a fellow clansman through sorcery.
Criminal Investigation Division (CID) officer in charge, Constable Gabriel Suka, confirmed that investigations began this morning after a PNG Tribal Foundation team arrived to assist police with the investigation.
“We had not received any formal complaint, but the killing came to our attention through viral social media footage,” Constable Suka said.
“We are grateful to the PNG Tribal Foundation for stepping in to assist. The area is extremely remote, and responding to incidents like this is often logistically difficult and expensive.”
He added that a major incident report had been submitted to the office of the Provincial Police Commander.
At this stage, the suspects remain unidentified, and police are appealing for any information from the community that could assist in apprehending those responsible.
The killing of the pastor has once again drawn attention to the ongoing issue of sorcery-related violence in remote area, where traditional beliefs and lack of access to justice can lead to tragic outcomes.
Police continue to urge the public to refrain from taking the law into their own hands and to report any suspected crimes directly to authorities.