Family of slain student call for peace and justice

The Late Delayn Yapi, at her Year 12 graduation at Hagen Park Secondary School on December 4, was found dead a few days after her graduation (Image: Supplied)

The family of a 19-year-old student who was murdered in the Western Highlands Province has called for justice, while also urging peace and forgiveness within the community.

The late Delayn Yapi’s father, Michael Yapi, says the family has chosen to forgive those responsible for their daughter’s death, guided by their Christian faith.

However, Mr Yapi made it clear that forgiveness does not excuse criminal acts.

He says those responsible have broken the law and must face the full force of the justice system.

The step taken by the Yapi family has set a precedent in the Western Highlands Province by promoting peace and forgiveness, while encouraging authorities to deal firmly with law breakers through legal means rather than retaliation.

Michael Yapi, father of the late Delayn Yapi, speaks during his daughter’s funeral service, stressing peace, forgiveness, and his call for justice (NBC News)

Meanwhile, the Western Highlands Provincial Police Commander Chief Superintendent John Sagom has confirmed that three main suspects have been arrested in connection with the case.

PPC Sagom said two suspects have been charged with wilful murder, while one has been charged with rape.

All three suspects are currently in custody at the Mt Hagen Police Station cells and are awaiting their court appearance while police investigations are continuing.

The Late Delayn Yapi was murdered a couple of days after her Grade 12 Graduation on December 4th at Hagen Park Secondary School.

Her body was found along a creek said to be within the vicinity of her community- the Komkui area in the Hagen Central District of Western Highlands Province.