About fifteen (15) suspects allegedly involved in death of a policeman and destruction of nine houses, two trade store, coffee gardens and livestock are still walking around freely in the communities.
Minj Police Station, CID Officer in Charge, Senior Sergent James Kami said manpower is one of the biggest challenges when dealing with such serious criminal cases, thus it is not easy for police to approach suspects easily up in the Highlands Region.
To do an arrest requires more, it involves not just manpower but, preparations of warrants, logistics, greater risks plus it is important for police man to have a good working relationship with community leaders.
If there is relationship between police and the communities as wells as their leaders then it becomes easier for the community to assist police in their investigations, often leading to suspects surrendering to community leaders and accepting arrests.
“We need to fight hard to get what we need to fully equip ourselves before attending to such cases and making arrests,” Snr Sgt Kami said.
Snr Sgt Kami said one of the main suspects was arrested in May and was charged with wilful murder and arson currently detained at Barawagi Prison in simbu, whilst the other remanded files were served last Friday to prosecutor for further legal processes.
He said investigations continues with help and support from PNG Tribal Foundation with stationary printings, fuel and police operation over a period now.
The 15 suspects who are still at large were allegedly involved in the killing of a late policeman Gabriel Kolim, from Jiwaka Province, in the Western Highlands in August of 2015.
The deceased was falsely accused of sorcery, and his death led to retaliation by his family members, resulting in the destruction of nine homes, livestock, and gardens.
Jiwaka Provincial Police Commander acting superintendent Laimo Asi said last week he is aware of SARV cases and police will continue to investigate and make arrests.