A violent incident involving rival groups in Asigi, Higaturu area of Oro Province has led to the closure of two schools and the emergency evacuation of their teaching staff, following a tragic event that unfolded on school grounds.
On Sunday, June 15, the Oro Provincial Education Division received an urgent request from the Boards and parents of Waru Primary School and the newly elevated Ondahare Primary High School. The request called for the immediate closure of the schools and the safe evacuation of all staff, citing escalating gang- related violence in Wards 19 and 20 of the Higaturu LLG.
The decisive moment came when a fight between two opposing groups nearby escalated, resulting in one of the individuals being chased and seeking refuge within the premises of a teacher’s residence. The pursuers followed the individual and fatally attacked him on the teacher’s property.
Witnessing the brutality of the incident, the teachers on site immediately called for evacuation, fearing for their own safety. Police responded swiftly to secure the area and safely extract the staff. Both schools have since been temporarily closed.
In response to the situation, Oro Governor Hon. Gary Juffa has tasked Provincial Administrator Mr. Trevor Magei with visiting the Asisi community to facilitate dialogue and resolution among those involved in the conflict.
Governor Juffa also used the opportunity to urge citizens across the province to elect leaders of integrity in the upcoming Local-Level Government (LLG) Elections, highlighting the need for strong ward-level leadership to curb lawlessness and promote peace in rural communities.
“We need strong leaders at the Ward level to assist us in addressing serious issues in our communities like law and order,” said Governor Juffa. “Our police have limited resources. We must all work together to ensure we live in harmony with each other.”
Governor Juffa assured parents and students that the closure of Waru and Ondahere schools is temporary and that the schools will reopen once the area is stabilized.
“The school will be reopened. I would like to assure all our parents and students of Waru and Ondahere Primary Schools. This closure is temporary until this unfortunate situation has been rectified,” he said.
He further confirmed that the individuals responsible for the killing are known to authorities, and arrests are expected to be made soon.
“Our closest police station in the area is located at Isivini. The two officers previously stationed there have since retired and are due to be replaced. We have notified the Royal Papua New Guinea Constabulary and are currently awaiting the deployment of new personnel.”
“We have recently welcomed an intake of 10 newly graduated police officers who have been accommodated and have officially commenced their duties.”
“In the long term, we have prepared 50 men and women who are set to undergo training through our reserve police program. Once completed, they will be added to the province’s police workforce.”
“Our teachers in rural areas play a huge role in preparing the life ahead for our children. I also commend our policemen in their swift response in ensuring the safety of our teachers and students,” Juffa added.
“The incident emphasizes the urgent need for strengthened community security and cooperation across all levels of government to ensure schools and public servants can operate in safe environments.”
“Moving forward, we have introduced programs under our agricultural sector to help our young men and women in our rural areas. We have already witnessed success stories with our young people in such commodities such as cocoa and rice and other SME activities.”
“I encourage our young people to reach out and work with those who are contributing positively to your community.”