PNG Tribal Foundation President GT Bustin has condemned the alleged attack on one of the frontline staff by angry locals in Banz on Tuesday night (30/06/26) and is calling for an immediate police investigation and the arrest of the suspect in Jiwaka Province.
Mr. Bustin condemned the violent attack on one of the organization’s key staff members, who was stabbed in the back last night in what is believed to be retaliation by perpetrators involved in an active sorcery accusation-related violence (SARV) case in the province.
“Our staff member was attacked because the Tribal Foundation is supporting a case against those responsible,” Mr. Bustin said.
“This is a direct attack on a human rights defender who is risking his life to protect vulnerable people and ensure justice is served.”
He called on the Royal Papua New Guinea Constabulary to immediately deploy Mobile Squads and arrest the known perpetrators responsible for the attack.
“The Tribal Foundation is currently supporting 65 active SARV cases alongside the Royal Papua New Guinea Constabulary and the Department of Justice and Attorney General.
“Our staff work in some of the country’s most dangerous environments to protect innocent people. They must be protected at all costs.”
PNG Tribal Foundation is leading the national effort to end sorcery accusation-related violence in Papua New Guinea. To date, the organization has supported the arrest of 161 alleged SARV perpetrators and currently providing assistance to 759 victims across the country.
“If individuals do not want to face justice, then they should not participate in SARV in the first place,” Mr. Bustin said.
“Attempting to intimidate or attack those who are fighting for justice is completely unacceptable.
“The Tribal Foundation will continue to dedicate its resources to ensuring those responsible are identified, arrested, and brought before the courts.”
He said the attack should serve as a serious wake-up call for the Government of Papua New Guinea to strengthen its response to SARV and intensify efforts to hold perpetrators accountable.
“Ending SARV requires a united commitment from law enforcement, government, and communities,” he said.
“Those who commit these crimes must understand that violence against victims or against those who defend them will not prevent justice. It only strengthens our resolve to see the law enforced.”