Community policing police officers and Police officers from Gordon police station on Sunday, April 30th, paid a visit to Eight Mile Last Block Settlement and had talks with people from Chimbu and Eastern Highland who had a confrontation earlier on after an Eastern Highlander died and several houses belonging to people from Chimbu were burnt to ashes.
According to NCD Metropolitan Superintendent, Silva Sika, the deceased from Goroka allegedly became sick after he with someone from Chimbu some dog meat.
“After his death his relatives alleged that the man died due to sorcery thus the relatives of the deceased man burnt down a number of houses belonging to Chimbu people in 8mile”.
However, quick intervention by a team of Community Police under the command of Officer-In-Charge of the Community Policing Unit at Gordon, First Constable Dominic Benjamin prevented the fight from escalating further.
“Community Policing Unit not only calmed the situation but further raised awareness on how police and the community can work together to address Sorcery Accusation Related Violence and other law and order problems that affects the community,” said Metsup Sika.
The team also visited another ethnic group from Enga and Hela who also fought amongst themselves over the weekend after a man from Enga was found dead.
According to Metsupt Sika, police are yet to establish facts surrounding his death however police are investigating the death and will take appropriate action once investigations are completed.
Police boss Sika thanked the Gordon police officers for their proactive approach and for bringing policing service to the people in the settlements over the weekend.
“Police presence in the settlements as well as awareness will deter crimes and prevent violence and physical confrontation and it is important to have police presence in hotspot areas.”