THE Tagali Local Level Government in the Tari-Pori district have surrendered their illegal firearms on Saturday 26th September 2026 at Halongali ECPNG Mission Station as gun amnesty continues.
Hela Provincial Police Commander (PPC), Inspector Arau Mairi confirmed that 35 factory-made guns and 30 home-made guns including a hand grenade and bows and arrows were successfully surrendered. This was a strong step towards peace, unity and a safer community.
PPC Mairi commended the individuals, youths, factions, and community leaders of Tagali LLG for surrendering their illegal firearms. He also urged youths and community leaders from the respective LLGs to take this opportunity to surrender the guns peacefully.
PPC Mairi said Tagali LLG was the second LLG to surrender their illegal firearms following the firearms surrendered by the Tebi LLG on Thursday 24th September, 2026.
“All gun owners and holders are encouraged to come forward and surrender factory-made firearms, home-made guns, ammunition, hand grenades, bows and arrows, wire catapults and other offensive weapons.
“No arrest for the weapons you hand in. No search of persons attending. No cordon-and-search in your community on event day. You will be issued a numbered receipt, PPC said, adding that he said weapons could also be handed in through a church or community leader on your behalf with the same approach.
PPC Mairi said the surrender of firearms demonstrates that Tagali is ready to choose peace over guns. He said this was a positive approach to take back Hela free from violence and tribal fights.
“Hand your gun in. Protect your people. Choose Peace. Nogat Gun, Nogat Traibal Fait,” PPC Mairi said.
PPC Mairi however acknowledged the Governor for Hela, Hon. Philip Undialu for taking the lead in the amnesty program. He said after 25th December, all protection ends and targeted enforcement operations would commence.