Prime Minister James Marape is adamant in getting rid of illegal guns that are being used by criminal elements especially in the Highlands region to harm innocent people and create chaos in communities.

The prime minister said his government means business and announced yesterday (Wednesday 14th January) that by further addressing this matter, a national gun amnesty and a buyback scheme will be introduced by his Cabinet.

He said by working with the new Police Minister, Sir John Pundari, the government will ensure security forces including Kumul 23, closely pursue those who possess all types of illegal firearms, and those who supply and smuggle them into communities.

“First things first, extract guns. Under his (Police Minister) watch, we will be calling for an amnesty period,” said the prime minister.

“These guns, most of them were paid for by others outside these tribal conflicts, passed them onto young men holding these guns.”

Marape said the young men in affected communities have the potential to do much more in bringing peace and participate in development in their areas. But, holding onto these guns and waging tribal war and committing crime, is taking them away from the good things in life.

Having said that, Marape said its time to move and put an end to the issue of illegal guns in communities.

He also warned that should anyone still holding onto illegal arms after the amnesty period, Kumul 23 will be coming after them.

Meanwhile, the prime minister confirmed that the recent Wapenamenda operation in the Enga province, represented only part of the planned security response.

“What you saw in Wapenamenda was not the full deployment of Kumul 23. This operation will continue and expand into all hotspots across the country.”

He said Government was determined to end the gun culture that has taken hold in parts of Enga, Hela, Southern Highlands and Western Highlands, as well as other areas.

“Only the State must carry guns — not criminals,” Prime Minister Marape said.