District Administrator and Police were attacked in Kerowagi District-Simbu

A violent confrontation erupted on Sunday, August 31st, at approximately 4:30 pm in Druamugl Village, Kerowagi District, Simbu Province. 

The incident involved members of the Ku Nana Kane tribe and police personnel who were providing security to the District Administrator during an awareness program about the upcoming Independence celebrations.

According to Detective Senior Sergeant Julie Gale, the lead investigator, tensions flared when the Ku Nana Kane tribe disagreed with the proposed location for the celebrations, which was announced by Kerowagi MP Francis Kikin Siune. 

The tribe falsely accused the District Administrator of altering the location, leading to a violent attack on the administrator and police personnel.

Sargent Gale, in a report, stated that during the altercation, the police vehicle (PAG 365) was stoned, resulting in damage to the windshield. Two rifles with serial numbers M221199 and L221124 were stolen but later returned before the police personnel were rescued. 

The District Administrator sustained serious injuries and remains in critical condition, while three police officers who were attacked are stable.

She commended the Simbu Provincial Police Commander [PPC], Superintendent Mazuc Rubiang, who responded swiftly, deploying the Kundiawa Task Force unit to intervene and rescue the police personnel. 

PPC Rubiang said the police later raided Druamugl Village, but the villagers had fled.

 He has vowed to continue targeting the area until the suspects are arrested.

"We demand that the community leaders work with us to hand over the suspects. I will not stop until they are brought to justice," Rubiang warned. 

He said that the investigation is ongoing, and he urged the community to cooperate in bringing the perpetrators to account.