Madang police have confirmed a tragic incident in Bogia District, Papua New Guinea, where five individuals, including a woman whose head was severed, lost their lives. Additionally, four people sustained injuries, and twenty houses were set ablaze. According to Acting Superintendent Robert Baim, Provincial Police Commander, the violence ensued when six armed men intercepted a passing motor canoe along the Ramu River. Believing the passengers were carrying vanilla and cocoa money, the armed group capsized the vessel, plunging all occupants into the water. Despite realizing their mistake, the armed men retreated to Korkam boat stop, leading to a confrontation with the passengers. What started as a disagreement over the capsized boat quickly escalated into a violent clash involving youths from neigh boring villages. In a disturbing turn, residents of Dakit and Guaia villages became targets of the violence, with even mothers and infants falling victim to the brutality. Tragically, a village court magistrate from Guaia was shot dead, and his body was disposed of in the river. Retaliation swiftly followed, with villagers from Guaia launching a counterattack on Kumnung village, resulting in widespread destruction. Law enforcement authorities from Madang Headquarters moved quickly to contain the unrest, apprehending, and detaining six suspects from the initial altercation. Community cooperation played a crucial role in this effort. Efforts to restore peace are underway, with both sides engaging in dialogue and expressing willingness to surrender suspects and lay down arms. Despite the challenges, signs of progress are emerging, bolstered by ongoing police patrols and a collective desire for reconciliation. Superintendent Baim expressed gratitude to the Minister for Energy and Member of Parliament for Bogia, Robert Naguri, and the District Development Authority (DDA) for their swift response, which facilitated police intervention. He emphasized the importance of collaboration among Madang's leaders to effectively serve the community and ensure the people receive the assistance they need.