It was early in the morning when police were alerted by their commander, Supt Mazuc Rubiang, regarding a fight at Gigine LLG in the Gumine District of Chimbu Province.
PPC Rubiang confirmed that the fight between the Era and Kalubiagao tribes in Digine LLG started late yesterday after a member of the PNG Defence Force, currently on leave, was attacked by youths from the Era tribe during a drinking brawl.
He said guns were used in the fight, which resulted in shots being fired and several people injured.
He added that five houses were burnt and police are now investigating the matter.
“I want to thank my taskforce police units who were onsite after the situation was reported. Those who were involved will be identified and dealt with accordingly because some innocent people had been injured and also lost their property. I have been raising awareness about how alcohol has caused lives and property to be damaged. The incident that happened last night is the result of alcohol. We will investigate all of them,” PPC Rubiang said.
He said that at 4am this morning, he was with his officers making sure that the situation was calm and the fight had ceased. He said all went well and the situation is now under control.
PPC Rubiang said they had spoken to both tribes and advised them to assist police in identifying those suspects involved.
He added that a team of police units from both the Mobile Squad and Simbu police will be patrolling that area.