The Royal Papua New Guinea Constabulary (RPNGC) has confirmed that six hostages abducted against their will by kidnappers in Western Province remain unharmed.
The Police Commissioner David Manning announced in a statement released today, Thursday 22nd May, that two criminals involved in the kidnapping have also been apprehended and a few hostages have been released as well.
He said the tireless police efforts on ground and proactive security have identified the priorities including the safety of the hostages as the top priority, while restricting the movement of kidnappers.
The case’s sensitive nature has kept police on their toes with ongoing Police operations to end the ordeal for those held captive, including limitation of further information until fully available.
The abduction occurred in on the morning of 12th May, in Western Province near the border with Hela and Southern Highlands Provinces.
The identities of the offenders including associates in this criminal activity have been revealed, according to the police analysis of intelligence and communications.
Meanwhile, police have been briefed with directives to intervene swiftly with suitable tactical operations in line with operational planning while exercising patience, as an expected course of action by the people of Papua New Guinea.
Due to limited aviation support in that particular region, police continue to face serious challenges. Ready access to appropriate aviation assets, including helicopters, is essential to the delivery of policing services to our remote communities.
Police continue to work with government and private industry partners to identify sustainable solutions to aviation requirements that meet the current and forecast operational requirements of the RPNGC.
Commissioner Manning strongly urged third party groups to let police do their job to free the hostages in a lawful manner and stay clear of the situation.
Furthermore, Commissioner Manning emphasized the presence of attempt ransom negotiations with kidnappers by political elements, strongly stressing that such channel will not be tolerated, including the risk of weakening effective police operations.