Alotau under siege by thugs, MP Abel calls for SOE

Alotau MP, Charles Abel is calling for a State of Emergency (SOE) to be in place amidst rising tension in the Milne Bay capital, Alotau.

According to eye witnesses there were heavy gunshots exchange last night and a police barracks next to the Islands Petroleum depot in town was set on fire by thugs.

Mr Abel wrote on his Alotau Electorate Facebook wall: I have requested SOE for Alotau from Cabinet.

Meanwhile, Provincial Administrator Ashan Numa is talking to the Provincial Police Commander, Chief Insp Peter Barkie on the next cause of action.

He has cautioned public servants within the capital, Alotau to stay at home as well as schools to close until further advice.

Banks and business houses have closed their doors awaiting further instructions from the Milne Bay Chamber of Commerce and the provincial law and order committee.