“There are no safe houses for displaced victims of the tribal wars in the Enga Province.”
This was made known by the Engan Human Rights Defender Mr. Solo Yokopyao when speaking to PNG HAUSBUNG.
He said this situation has made it quite difficult to keep track of the number of the victims, most of whom are women and children.
Mr. Yokopyao said they only become aware of the plight of these people when they are approached by the victims themselves.
“We try our best to house them, but most of these victims do not come forward to the authorities, because their safety is never guaranteed.”
“The victims know well that the enemy tribe has a far-reaching network, and their safety can be compromised.”
He added that recently, he had to use his own resources and those of his family members, to house several victims from the tribal fights in Enga.
“Even if the victims are taken to neighbouring provinces, they are never safe from the enemy and can still be attacked.”
He said that is probably why victims do not come forward to the authorities for help, instead opting to go into hiding themselves.
“It is quite a complicated situation. We do the best we can to help the victims, but we always must be very careful.
Mr. Yokopyao previously worked alongside American Lutheran Missionary Mr. Anton Lutz, who was is a staunch Human Rights Defender in Sorcery Accusation Related Violence in the Enga Province.
He is now attached to the Tribal Foundation and continues in his role as a Human Rights Defender.