The shooting and killing of two illegal miners by security in Porgera over the weekend has ignited fresh violence in the mining township in Enga province with properties destroyed and police on the hunt for other perpetrators. Police Commissioner David Manning confirmed the deaths in a statement released by his office on Sunday, stating that the two illegal miners were shot after an attempted incursion upon restricted areas of infrastructure in Porgera. The incident occurred despite repeated warnings and community engagement that there would be no tolerance for illegally threatening critical infrastructure. This is made mush worse when illegal miners threaten personnel and security forces with firearms or other forms of weapons. “During an attempted incursion into a restricted area of the Porgera facility, armed illegal miners discharged firearms at security personnel. “Security forces responded as they are expected, in defence of critical infrastructure and personnel. Two illegal miners were shot and killed during the incident. “Security forces have been clear that we will not tolerate the illegal carriage of weapons or any interference in critical infrastructure or communities by criminal elements. “Our priority remains the safety and well-being of the local communities and the protection of vital infrastructure that supports the livelihood of many.” “The deaths of any person, be it of a criminal or otherwise is regrettable, but these criminals have been held accountable for their actions.” Commissioner Manning confirmed police operations in connection with the incident remains ongoing, with security forces currently undertaking searches of surrounding communities for co- offenders. “My message is clear, that any attempts to disrupt the peace and safety of the community or to damage vital infrastructure will be met with decisive and robust action. “The safety of innocent people, the integrity of critical infrastructure, and the protection of surrounding communities remain our paramount priority.” Additional information on the progress of the ongoing operation will be released as it becomes available.