A police operation in Madang to capture wanted criminal Yaks Linus Wanamari ended with his escape after he was wounded during a confrontation with law enforcement.
Wanamari, 24, from Manjuat village in East Sepik, is facing multiple serious charges including murder, arson, armed robbery, and rape.
The incident unfolded early Monday morning when police responded to a report of Wanamari threatening a resident at RD Cannery Ltd with a homemade firearm.
Upon arriving at the scene, police pursued Wanamari into nearby shrubs.
Acting Provincial Police Commander Robert Baim confirmed that Wanamari was shot in the leg after resisting arrest.
He was taken to Modilon General Hospital for treatment, but despite his injuries, Wanamari managed to escape from the hospital’s Emergency Ward.
Authorities are continuing the search for him.
Wanamari, known to frequent the RD Cannery and Bumbu Wara Market in Lae, remains on the run.
Police are urging the public to report any sightings.
“We will not rest until we find you,” said PPC Baim, emphasizing the importance of community cooperation in ensuring safety.