Lae City, often perceived as larger than it truly is, comprises numerous settlements that converge on the town from various directions.
However, recent events unfolded as these settlements converged, prompting a response from the three disciplinary officers to quell the situation.
During the protests, aimed at raising various concerns, the disciplinary officers had to intervene, resulting in the injury and demise of several would-be looters.
Out of those involved, five individuals lost their lives, and their bodies are currently housed at the morgue.
Additionally, numerous others sustained injuries, with several admitted to the hospital.
Addressing the situation, ACP for Northern Command, Peter Guinness, emphasized that their actions were taken to protect lives and properties.
He expressed regret over the necessity to resort to force, attributing the unrest to protesters who failed to recognize the significance of their actions.
Guinness highlighted the distinction between Lae and Port Moresby, emphasizing that the circumstances in Lae were not akin to those in the capital.
Guinness issued a stern warning to potential future protesters, asserting that the authorities would not guarantee their safety.
He urged citizens to prioritize their safety and security, cautioning against any future attempts to disrupt the peace.
As the city aims to return to normalcy, the three disciplinary forces are actively patrolling public spaces to ensure the resumption of regular business activities.
Despite the unfortunate events, Guinness expressed his appeal to the citizens of Morobe to refrain from further disruptive actions, urging them to embrace business as usual.
In the aftermath of the clashes, informal statistics from the Accident and Emergency department at Angau Provincial Hospital reported five deaths upon arrival and eight individuals hospitalized.
An official report from the CEO’s office detailing the comprehensive casualty and injury figures is pending release.