The Government remains firmly committed to protecting peoples’ lives, maintaining public order, and safeguarding the country’s sovereignty, says Police Minister Peter Tsiamalili Jr.
He says security forces are conducting a carefully planned intelligence-led operation in Tsak Valley, Enga Province, targeting individuals believed to have illegal, factory-made high-powered firearms that pose serious threats to public safety and national security.
“During the operation, security personnel encountered armed resistance. Two suspects, each armed with an M16 assault rifle, were fatally wounded after engaging security forces,” Mr Tsiamalili said.
“One member of the security force was shot and wounded and is now recovering after receiving prompt medical treatment.
“The Government regrets the loss of life that occurred. However, the presence and use of military-grade weapons within civilian communities represents a grave and unacceptable risk to peace, safety, and national stability. Such weapons have no place in our society.”
Minister Tsiamalili said the security forces acted in accordance with clear rules of engagement and in response to direct and imminent threats to life.
“Their actions were measured, lawful, and taken to protect the wider community. Three additional suspects were apprehended and are now in custody,” Minister Tsiamalili said.
“Investigations are underway to determine how these weapons entered the area and to disrupt the network, supplying illegal firearms.
“I commended the professionalism and courage of our police and defense personnel, who operated under extremely dangerous conditions to protect the people of PNG.
“I urged all leaders and commentators to approach matters of national security responsibly.
“The dissemination of unverified or misleading information risks igniting tensions and undermining confidence in our national security institutions.
“Matters of public safety must be approached with care and placed above political considerations.
“Public safety must always be placed above politics,” Mr Tsiamalili said.
Operation Summary
Security forces conducted coordinated operations at two locations in Tsak Valley during the early hours of 2 January 2026. The objective was to recover high-powered firearms, apprehend armed suspects, and prevent further threats to public safety.
At the first location, a suspect opened fire on security personnel inside a residence, resulting in one officer being wounded. Security forces responded proportionately, and the suspect was fatally wounded.
At the second location, another armed suspect was encountered and fatally wounded after posing and immediate threat. Additional firearms were recovered.
Three suspects were apprehended during the operation and remained in lawful custody. They have been transported to Mendi, where they will face charges relating to illegal weapons possessions and other criminal offenses.
During the extraction phase, security personnel encountered deliberate obstruction along exit routes and came under sustained fire from armed individuals positioned on higher ground. Reinforcement from the PNG Defence Force assisted in securing a safe withdrawal.
Investigations are ongoing to determine the origin, movement, and supply networks of the seized weapons as part of broader national efforts to disrupt the illegal trafficking of firearms.
This operation underscores the government commitment to restoring peace, strengthening law and order, and ensuring that the safety and security of Papua New Guineans remains our highest priority.