The Prime Minister James Marape alongside member for Tari-Pori commended Tari police for swiftly arresting the suspect in the fatal stabbing of a high school teacher in Tari, Hela Province.
Prime Minister Marape made this statement today, Saturday 1st March 2025.
Prime Minister Marape, in a personal message, said he was deeply aggrieved
by the news of the death of the young teacher at his school, Hope Institute in
Tari.
He expressed deep sorrow to the family of Mr. Rickson Poko, a young teacher from Hope Institute, who was senselessly stabbed while trying to stop an argument.
He highlighted Poko’s contributions and recent studies, mourning the loss of this promising Unitech graduate.
Prime Minister Marape confirmed that the community apprehended the suspect, who is now in police custody.
He assured that justice will be served for the senselessly taken young life.
Furthermore, Marape plead to the Tari community to host relatives of the deceased, who would be travelling to Tari from Enga to take the body home.
“All support will be given to the family to ensure the case is prosecuted.”
“We will also support the family during the time of bereavement.”
“The Tari District Peace & Good Order team will facilitate hearing of family
grievances from the Melanesian customary perspective where relatives of the
victim will place upon the relatives of the murderer.”