PRIME Minister Hon. James Marape has strongly condemned the armed ambush on Enga Provincial Police Commander Chief Superintendent Steven Harris and his team, describing it as a direct attack on the rule of law and the authority of the State.
Chief Superintendent Harris was reportedly travelling in a police convoy near Yaltep, before the Sirunki Strawberry Farm, when gunmen opened fire without warning. The police team was travelling to arrest suspects in connection with an ongoing murder investigation.
Three police reservists accompanying Chief Superintendent Harris acted immediately, shielding him from the gunfire and returning fire while helping to secure the area. Papua New Guinea Defence Force personnel who heard the shooting reportedly responded and assisted in securing the scene, allowing the police commanderband his team to continue their journey safely.
Prime Minister Marape praised Chief Superintendent Harris, the reservists and the PNGDF personnel for their courage and discipline under extremely dangerous circumstances.
“This was a cowardly and calculated attack on a senior police officer who was carrying out his constitutional duty to uphold the law and protect the people of Enga,” Prime
Minister Marape said.
“I strongly condemn this ambush. An attack on our police personnel is an attack on the State, the rule of law and every law-abiding citizen who wants to live in peace.
“I commend Chief Superintendent Steven Harris for remaining calm and focused under fire. I also pay special
tribute to the three police reservists who placed themselves between their commander and the gunfire. Their courage, loyalty and quick response helped protect lives and demonstrated the highest traditions of service.
“I also thank the PNG Defence Force personnel who responded to the sound of gunfire and helped secure the area. This cooperation between our police and defence personnel is vital as we restore peace, security and respect for the law in Enga.”
Prime Minister Marape said the Government would not allow armed criminals to intimidate police officers, public servants or communities.
“The criminals responsible must understand that they cannot hide forever. The full force of the law will be brought against those who planned and carried out this attack, as well as anyone who provided them with weapons, shelter or other assistance,” he said.
“I call on community leaders, churches, councillors and ordinary citizens in the area to cooperate with police and provide information that will lead to the identification and arrest of the gunmen. Anyone protecting these criminals is helping to prolong violence and suffering in Enga.”
Prime Minister Marape said the incident highlighted the risks faced daily by police officers, reservists, PNGDF personnel and other frontline workers serving in difficult parts of the country.
“These men and women leave their families and place themselves in danger to protect our communities.
They deserve the support, respect and cooperation of every Papua New Guinean,” he said.
“The Government remains committed to strengthening police operations, restoring law and order and supporting long-term peacebuilding in Enga. We will not surrender any part of Papua New Guinea to criminals, tribal fighters or those who believe the barrel of a gun places them above the law.
“I also want to remind the people of Maramuni, and indeed all Papua New Guineans, that if you have legitimate concerns or grievances, there is no need to resort to lawlessness to have your voices heard. If your concerns are not being addressed at the district or provincial level, raise them again through the proper channels. If necessary, submit your petitions or letters to the Enga Provincial Government and to the National Government in Port Moresby. Someone within the machinery
of government will attend to your concerns.
“Two wrongs do not make a right. Breaking the law is never the answer to resolving legitimate issues. Our democracy provides lawful avenues for citizens to seek justice and accountability, including peaceful petitions and, where necessary, the courts.
“As we move beyond our nation’s 50th anniversary and into the next chapter of our history, I urge all Papua New Guineans to embrace the rule of law and resolve disputes peacefully. Peaceful advocacy will always achieve more than violence or intimidation. You do not need to fight the Government to have your concerns heard. Raise them through the proper processes, and I have every confidence that someone, somewhere within our system of government will respond.
“To Chief Superintendent Harris and his team, I say: the Government and the people of Papua New Guinea stand with you. Remain strong, continue your duties professionally and know that your courage is recognised and deeply appreciated.
“Enga has produced many outstanding leaders, professionals, public servants and businesspeople. Its future must not be held hostage by a small number of armed criminals. The people deserve peace, development and the freedom to move, work, learn and raise their families without fear. Let us all work together to restore lasting peace, uphold the rule of law and build a stronger and more united Papua New Guinea.”