1 killed, 4 hospitalised after alleged sorcery attack in Karamui

One man is dead, and four others are hospitalized after a violent attack in Wenaiyo Village, Karamui-Nomane district, Simbu province, over allegations of sorcery.

According to Simbu Provincial Police Command, 15-armed men wielding bush knives, homemade firearms and iron rods surrounded five men at around 5:30 am on Sunday, 12th July 2026. The suspects accused the victims of causing the death of an elderly tribesman one month earlier.

Police say one victim died and is expected to be buried on Sunday. The other four survivors are receiving treatment at the Sir Joseph Nombri Memorial Kundiawa General Hospital.

Simbu PPC, Supt. Mazuc Rubiang confirmed the case has been registered and police have interviewed the survivors.

PPC Rubiang said investigations in Karamui were completed late Saturday afternoon and 16 suspects arrested have been airlifted by the police helicopter [Eye in the Sky] to Kundiawa cells.

Community leaders in Karamui commended PPC Rubiang and the Simbu Provincial Health Authority for the quick deployment of police and medical teams.

Speaking on behalf of the community, Sine Dawi, said the operation was historic for the district.

“The ‘Eye in the Sky’ MS13 team was flown in directly from Wau-Bulolo. This shows PPC Simbu’s great concern for our people. We are truly grateful,” he said.

A local elder from Wenaiyo Village also thanked police.

“We thought no one would come to help us. But when we saw the helicopter land, we felt safe again. Thank you PPC for remembering Karamui. This is the first time we have seen such quick action in Karamui. You've shown us that our lives matter, "he said.

Simbu Police Command said they are working with the Karamui-Nomane DDA to provide logistics and maintain law and order at Karamui station.