HELA Provincial Police Commander (PPC), Inspector Arau Mairi, has confirmed that young men from Hela have voluntarily surrendered four high powered firearms including M16 magazine, tear gas canister and 40mm grenade to the Hela Governor, Hon. Philip Undialu at his residence over the weekend.
PPC Mairi said the four firearms surrendered to the governor Undialu were M16 A2 rifle, AK47, SR8, and 22 rifle. He said the surrender of the weapons is a positive step towards peace, and law and order in the province.
“The voluntarily surrender of these firearms shows that out people are beginning to take ownership of peace in Hela. We thank the individuals involved for making the right decision and for working with the Governor’s office,” PPC Mairi said.
Governor Undialu whilst receiving the firearms, thanked the young men for trusting his leadership and willingly choosing the path of peace for their community, district, and province.
Governor Undialu also promised to the young men that they would be supported to return to school and help them explore SME opportunities so they could build a new life through education, skills, and honest work.
PPC Mairi said the surrender of the high-powered firearms means choosing peace over destruction because guns have destroyed lives, communities and putting mothers, young girls and elders on danger in the communities where they deserve peace and harmony.
“I appeal to the rest of people in Hela to follow this example and put down their guns and surrender to the state. Guns can punish you and destroy your life. When you have guns, you invite problems, so surrender them voluntarily for the good of our women, young girls, and elderly people to embrace peace and order in the communities.
“Let us choose education, better life, work, and peace. And choose your children and your future,” PPC Mairi said, adding that he said the surrender of firearms shows a change is happening in Hela province.
PPC said several people have also promised to surrender firearms and he believes more firearms would be surrendered to the state going forward.