Prime suspect arrested in Siassi boat piracy and robbery

One of the suspects involved in the sea piracy attack, captured by police (Image: Supplied)

A prime suspect in a piracy attack and robbery on a passenger boat destined for Siassi has been arrested, as police continue their investigation into the incident that occurred around 8 a.m. yesterday at the mouth of the Busu River.

Superintendent Samson Siguyaru, Provincial Police Commander of Morobe, reported that the boat had eight passengers, including a woman and a child, when it was attacked by eight armed pirates wielding knives and homemade firearms. During the assault, the boat’s skipper was injured, three male passengers were physically attacked, and K20,000 was stolen from passengers.

Passengers were left stranded after their boat was capsized by the criminals (Image: Supplied)

Before fleeing, the pirates rammed and capsized the boat, leaving the passengers stranded in open water. Witnesses on the mainland alerted authorities, and the Water Police rescued the passengers, providing medical treatment for their injuries and trauma.

Police investigations led to the arrest of the prime suspect, who was shot in the right leg while attempting to evade capture. At the time of arrest, he was found with K700 in cash and is currently receiving treatment at Angau General Hospital under police supervision.

Superintendent Siguyaru confirmed that police operations are ongoing as the investigation into the piracy attack continues.