Joint police and PNG Defence Force operations seize illegal firearms in upper Highlands
Prime Minister James Marape has commended police and security forces for strong action against illegal guns, roadblocks, and tribal fighting in the Upper Highlands, saying the operations show that law and order is being enforced.
In a statement released today, the Prime Minister applauded the police and joint security agencies for recent operations aimed at restoring peace in the region.
He specifically acknowledged Assistant Commissioner of Police Anthony Wagambie Jr, who is leading Special Police Operations involving the Royal Papua New Guinea Constabulary and the Papua New Guinea Defence Force.
“I want to commend ACP Anthony Wagambie Jr and his team for stepping up and combining security forces to remove illegal firearms from our communities, apprehend offenders, and put a stop to tribal fighting,” Prime Minister Marape said.
The Prime Minister also commended Police Commissioner David Manning for assigning the task to experienced leadership.
“I commend Commissioner Manning for placing this responsibility in the hands of one of our country’s finest police officers. ACP Wagambie has now fully settled into operations in the Highlands and is delivering results,” he said.
Prime Minister Marape said he was briefed on the progress of the operations through an official report dated 25 December 2025, submitted by the Commander of the Upper Highlands Special Operations.
According to the report, joint police and defence force operations have already achieved several outcomes across the Upper Highlands provinces.
Five suspects were arrested at illegal roadblocks in Jiwaka and charged under the Counter-Terrorism Act and will face court.
Another eleven suspects were arrested at Rakamanda in Wabag for blocking the National Highway. They have been detained and will also be charged under the Counter-Terrorism Act for obstructing vital infrastructure.
Eighteen suspects were arrested at Wapenamanda for involvement in tribal fighting. They have appeared in court, were refused bail, and remain in custody until their next court appearance in January 2026.
Police also arrested eight suspects under the Firearms Act at various locations.
The operations resulted in the recovery of 13 illegal firearms and ammunition, including high-powered rifles, a revolver, a pump-action shotgun, modified rifles, and homemade guns.
The report also states that police will enforce zero tolerance on illegal roadblocks along public roads.
“Illegal roadblocks constitute obstruction of vital infrastructure. Anyone involved will be arrested and charged under the Counter-Terrorism Act,” Prime Minister Marape said.
The Prime Minister warned that illegal firearms are a serious threat to lives, communities and the country.
“Our country cannot be held hostage by illegal guns that destroy communities and undermine our future,” he said.
He also warned young people not to be used by outsiders to fuel violence.
“I caution our youths in particular not to allow yourselves to be manipulated by people outside your village settings who want to turn you into tribal warriors for their own agendas,” he said.
Prime Minister Marape reminded the public that firearms are illegal under PNG law and that Parliament has passed laws imposing life imprisonment for possession of illegal guns and ammunition.
“The law is clear: life imprisonment,” he said. “What we are ensuring now is that the entire law and justice chain works properly: arrest, prosecution, conviction, and sentencing.”
He said the joint operations are focused on restoring peace, supporting major development projects, and strengthening the rule of law in the Upper Highlands.
Reflecting on the timing of the operations during the Christmas period, the Prime Minister said the results were reassuring.
“At this Christmas time, it brings warmth and joy to my heart to know that good policemen still abound and that good policemen are still at work across our country,” he said.
Prime Minister Marape reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to peace, strong law and order, and protecting communities from violence linked to illegal firearms.