One dead in land dispute in Bogia

A man has died and a primary school and aid post have been closed in Marangis village, Bogia district of Madang, following an ongoing land dispute with the neighbouring Watam community in East Sepik.

The dispute, which began earlier this month over a land boundary, involved the deceased, a man from Biwat in Angoram district, who was married into the Watam community. He was reportedly attacked and fatally wounded in the chest with a spear. His body was submerged in water until discovered last Monday and taken to Watam.

Local leaders said tensions escalated after Watam villagers encroached on Marangis land, prompting fear among women, children, and the elderly, many of whom have fled the village. Relatives of the deceased are reportedly collaborating with Watam men, raising concerns of retaliatory attacks.

Marangis leaders have appealed to police, Madang Provincial Government, and the Lands Office to intervene promptly. Part of the disputed land is being cleared to resettle Kadovar islanders displaced by a 2018 volcanic eruption.

Acting Superintendent Robert Baim, Madang Police Chief, confirmed he has received reports of the incident and is monitoring the situation.