Security forces neutralize armed offenders and seize factory-made rifles in Tsak Valley operation
Acting Commissioner of Police Samson Kua has announced the successful conclusion of a major intelligence-led operation in a village in Tsak Valley early this morning, resulting in the seizure of two high-powered M16 rifles and the neutralization of two armed offenders.
The operation, executed by security forces with the Upper Highlands Special Operations commenced in the early hours of Friday, January 2, 2026, with the specific objective of locating and apprehending suspects in possession of factory-made firearms known to be used in tribal conflicts.
Acting Commissioner Kua reported that raids were conducted simultaneously on two locations. Upon attempting entry at the first location, security forces came under immediate, indiscriminate fire from a suspect inside the dwelling. One member of the security forces was shot and wounded in the initial exchange. In response, the team returned fire to suppress the threat, resulting in the armed offender being shot dead. An M16 factory-made rifle and a loaded magazine were recovered from the scene.
At the second targeted location, security forces engaged another armed individual who was subsequently shot and killed. A second M16 rifle with a loaded magazine was retrieved, along with a modified .38 caliber revolver and ammunition for both 7.62mm and 5.56mm calibers. Three additional suspects were apprehended at the scene and are currently detained.
Following the raids, which concluded at 06:30 hrs, security forces faced a coordinated ambush while attempting to extract from the village. Tribesmen associated with the suspects had felled large trees across the exit route at three separate locations, bringing down power lines to obstruct the convoy.
“Our members came under heavy fire from armed tribesmen positioned on the high ground and flanks while they were physically clearing the blocked road.
A police vehicle was struck by gunfire, narrowly missing the driver. The team utilized heavy firepower and tactical maneuvers to fight their way out, supported by PNGDF Bravo 2 Company, who advanced from the opposite end to secure the corridor,” Acting Commissioner Kua stated.
The wounded officer was stabilized at the scene by an Army Medic and transported to Hospital, where he was treated for pellet wounds and has since been discharged to recover.
Acting Commissioner Kua confirmed that the three detained suspects will undergo questioning and formal charging. A vehicle belonging to one of the suspects has also been impounded.
“Intelligence indicates that the two confiscated M16 rifles were being utilized as ‘hired guns’ to fuel tribal conflicts and aid in criminal activities. We will be conducting an immediate trace on the serial numbers to establish their origin. This engagement, which lasted over an hour, demonstrates our resolve to disarm these groups despite the high risks involved,” the Acting Commissioner concluded.