The people of Simbu have been urged by Simbu Provincial Police Commander (PPC) Mazuc Rubiang to report any Sorcery Accusation Related Violence (SARV) incidents to Police.
PPC Rubiang made this announcement in a statement dated 6th of May 2025, following four (4) alleged SARV cases posted on Social Media (Facebook) despite no formal report to police regarding any of these cases.
The social media post also claimed that the police and Tribal Foundation are working on addressing it; however, the PPC said this is untrue because no formal report had been lodged with his office relating those four incidents.
The four cases are similar in nature. Two occurred in Gumini and the other two cases in Kerowagi. The cases include;
- a woman who was burned in her small hut (Gumine),
- a young man (in Gumine) who was brutally murdered and thrown into a toilet pit,
- a woman and her son who were chopped (Kerowagi), and
- another report of a woman who was tortured and thrown alive into a toilet pit, claiming (Kerowagi).
“My office had not received anything regarding these cases posted on Facebook, so it might be false. I have to confirm with my respective police station commanders,” he said
“So far, Simbu province is quiet, and if such incidents are happening in remote parts of the province, people must report them to the police so we can seek help from our leaders to assist the victims. Do the right thing, my Simbu people,” said PPC Rubiang.
Meanwhile, PPC Rubiang is calling for close collaboration with all police officers and government officers, so timely information is circulated to responsible authorities to assist.
PPC Rubiang warned that those spreading misinformation will be investigated and charged. He is urging them to stop doing that, stating that false reports could damage the province’s reputation.
The PPC concluded by acknowledging and expressing his gratitude for the good work his police officers continue to do in the province.