PNG Power petitioned over death

Relatives of an elderly woman who was electrocuted in Kimbe Town, last week Wednesday, have demanded an immediate and comprehensive investigation to be conducted into the circumstances relating to her death.

60 year-old Pauline Lomboi Lawrence was electrocuted when she stepped on an unsecured power line, which was allegedly left lying on the ground by PNG Power workers after they responded to reports of a faulty line in the Laleki area.

The relatives say PNG Power linesmen after responding to the faulty line report, failed to follow proper procedures in isolating the problem and ensuring that all the live wires were secured before leaving the scene.

They say the deceased, thinking it was safe to walk after PNG Power officials attended to the issue, met her fate when she stepped on a live wire left unsecured on the ground.

The woman was taken to the Kimbe hospital, where doctors confirmed she had died as a result of electrocution.

The victim's son, Fidelis Tupi says they have presented a petition for immediate compensation of 200 thousand Kina from PNG Power Limited and are also demanding an independent investigation and the suspension of all PNG Power officers involved in the incident.

PNG Power Limited has been given until this Friday to respond positively to their demands.