Warring clans sign ceasefire agreement

Two clans from the PNG LNG project site at Hides in Hela Province have officially signed a ceasefire agreement, today, bringing an end to years of tribal conflict that have plagued the Hides area.

The Wita and Topani clans came together in Tari Town today to formalize the peace accord in a ceremony attended by key provincial leaders and members of the public.

Among the dignitaries were Hela Provincial Police Commander Superintendent Michael Welly, Senior Provincial Magistrate Mathew Maitang, Deputy Provincial Administrator Tai Lawe, and Provincial Law and Justice Director Daniel Tumbiari, whose efforts were instrumental in brokering the agreement.

Director Tumbiari expressed deep gratitude to both clans for their willingness to lay down arms and embrace peace. He highlighted the devastating toll of the conflict, which has claimed approximately 30 lives, displaced families, and led to the destruction of property worth thousands of kina.

“This conflict has robbed our children of their future,” he said. “Now that peace has been declared, it is time for communities to rebuild and engage in meaningful development.”

Superintendent Welly echoed the sentiment, emphasizing the spiritual and civic weight of the agreement. “This commitment has been witnessed by God, the Government, and the people,” he said. “It is now our collective responsibility to nurture peace in our hearts and ensure that no further violence erupts.”

He also issued a stern warning to potential violators of the agreement, stating that police and the PNG Defence Force stand ready to intervene. “Anyone who breaches this peace will be arrested and charged. We will not hesitate to deploy personnel to restore order,” Welly affirmed.

PPC Welly urged other tribal enemies to lay down their arms and make peace like the two parties did today. He stressed that after 2 weeks, the nation will celebrate its 50th Independence Anniversary, and this has to be a turning point for communities who had been plagued by lawlessness.

"The signing marks a significant turning point for the Hela Province, especially for communities surrounding the vital PNG LNG project. As the province looks ahead, today’s ceasefire offers a renewed hope for stability, development, and unity among its people," Supt Welly stated.