Reports of the kidnapping and assault of 17 school girls along the corridors leading from the Mt. Bosavi area in Hela province, has irked Human Rights Defenders in the country. Ms. Ruth Kissam, staunch Human Rights Defender, said kidnapping and hurting of women and girls in this region, has been an ongoing issue. “The only reason why this issue has come to light, is because of the kidnapping of an international national lecturer and his fellow researchers early this year.” She said the leaders from these areas, are well aware of what has been going on, but have turned a blind eye to what is an ongoing situation. “These activities are being supported by white collared warlords! Because how can a simple villager afford a K50, 000 – K60, 000 machine gun?” She said the leaders from these areas are not taking a responsibility for the actions of their people and unfortunately, this means women and girls in the area, continue to suffer. “The leaders from these areas, need to be proactive in their actions. You cannot be dealing with National issues and your own backyard is a mess." "They need to stop hiding and come out and deal with this issue and stop using women and girls as collateral damage.”