Armed gang attempts highway hold-up near Wewak

A criminal gang of more than 20 men attempted to hold up several public motor vehicles [PMVs] this morning near Koikin Village, on the outskirts of Wewak.

The suspects fled into nearby bushes after one of them was struck by a vehicle and injured. Police and community members are now pursuing the gang along bush tracks leading back towards Wewak.

Highway robberies have become increasingly common in recent weeks, raising serious concerns for commuters and transport operators. Police sources confirmed another attack earlier this week at Warangom in Maprik District, where a driver sustained bullet wounds and was hospitalised.

Local community leader Harold Melehei condemned the escalating violence.

“Our people from Drekikir and Nuku districts are living in fear. I appeal to PPC Tamari to ensure police presence along the highways,” he said.

But manpower shortages remain a major obstacle.

A senior officer admitted: “Police resources in East Sepik are stretched thin, and this is affecting consistent law enforcement across the province.”