Yopo leader calls for tougher laws after surrendering guns

Leader of Yopo Tribe Lawrence Londari making his point in the presence Police Minister Sir John Pundari recently *(Image: NBC News / Emmanuel Eralia)*

The National Amnesty and Gun Surrender Program is progressing in Enga Province, following the surrender of high-powered weaponry by one of the region’s most prominent tribal factions.

Lawrence Londari, leader of the Yopo Tribe in the Tsak Valley of Wapenamanda District, led his tribesmen recently to hand over more than 15 high-powered firearms and a significant cache of ammunition to police.

While the surrender was hailed for the government’s countrywide bid to curb tribal warfare, Londari said the program’s success hinges on the state’s ability to provide a stronger legal shield for those who choose to disarm.

Speaking at the handover, he provided a rare and candid insight into the mechanics of Highlands conflict. He admitted that while his tribe has been deeply involved in fighting over the years, the decision to arm was often a reactive one.

"We have been actively involved in many tribal fights over the years," Londari said. "The guns have been bought as a means for self-defense, as we fear attacks from other tribes over land disputes or payback from past issues."

Yopo Tribe surrendering their guns during the recent launch of the National Armnesty and Gun Surrender program in Wabag, Enga Province *(Image: NBC News / Emmanuel Eralia)*

He said the volatile nature of provincial security had previously forced his people to arm themselves to ensure their survival. With the weapons now in the hands of the state, he is demanding that the National Government reciprocate by tightening laws to protect lives and property.

The Enga launch serves as the pilot for a planned nationwide rollout of the Amnesty Program. Authorities are using the Yopo tribe’s transition as a call to action for other warring communities across the province to lay down their arms.

The program is designed not only to remove illegal firearms from the streets but to address the underlying law and order issues that have hampered development in the Highlands for decades.

Police and provincial leaders have reiterated their appeal to other communities in Enga to participate in the amnesty, urging them to trade a culture of the gun for a more peaceful and prosperous future.