In an effort to restore peace along the Hiritano Highway following a retaliation killing, Goilala MP Casmiro Aia and Central Provincial Police Commander Chief Inspector Joseph Salle held discussions with the Goilala communities of Vanapa and Veikabu on Thursday, November 14. They urged residents to end violence and prevent attacks on innocent travellers along the highway and allow the traffic on the highway to move freely. The meeting came in response to a recent roadblock incident, believed to be linked to ongoing feuds between these communities. At the gathering, MP Aia addressed the group of Goilala people residing at Vanapa, urging them to avoid taking matters into their own hands. “Many lives have been lost, and these issues have been reported to the police," MP Aia said, adding, "The innocent people using the highway have nothing to do with the killings that took place, so they must not be attacked,” Aia stated firmly. He encouraged the communities to let the authorities handle the incidents and stressed the need for peaceful solutions. MP Aia then conveyed a similar message to the Goilala residents at Veikabu, urging them to refrain from setting up roadblocks along the highway. He advised them to remain calm in their homes and seek lawful means to address their grievances. The community at Veikabu has reportedly lost more than six lives this year, including a recent tragedy two weeks ago when three members were killed. “The road must be free for the public. Let us find ways to resolve this issue without violence,” Aia emphasized. In support of Aia’s call for peace, Central PPC Salle also warned residents against blocking the highway or engaging in aggressive actions. “The Hiritano Highway is a National Highway; it’s a government asset, and no one has the right to create roadblocks, collect money, or attack anyone traveling along this highway,” Chief Inspector Salle stated. He cautioned the community that the police would take strict measures against anyone disturbing public peace or harassing travellers. The police commander acknowledged the heightened tensions between the Vanapa and Veikabu groups. The roadblocks reportedly began after a man from Vanapa was allegedly killed by another Goilala resident from Veikabu. This incident is thought to be a retaliation by Veikabu residents, who had lost over six people in earlier conflicts and suspect Vanapa locals of involvement in the attacks. PPC Salle confirmed that an investigation into the recent murder and previous incidents is underway, stressing that the police would address the matter seriously. During the meeting, PPC Salle received a letter of complaint from Veikabu community leaders outlining their issues with the Vanapa group, including grievances related to the recent killings. Both MP Aia and PPC Salle assured the communities that law enforcement was committed to investigating and resolving these matters and urged the people to respect the rights of innocent travelers. PPC Salle further encouraged the public to stay cautious when moving along this section of the Hiritano Highway, particularly near Veikabu, where the roadblocks have been reported. “If anyone sees any suspicious activity, they should report it to the police,” he advised, pledging that officers would regularly patrol the area to maintain order and prevent further disruptions. The talks concluded with a shared commitment to peace and cooperation between the communities.