Following the recent clash between villages on the Island of Kiriwina, police in Milne Bay are now looking to establish the cause of death of what police believe to be 17 reported deaths from information on the Island.
Provincial Police Commander, Superintendent Peter Barkie has stated that he now has men on the ground looking into the report of the deaths and to maintain a police presence to discourage further fighting on the island.
“We could not get men onto the island due to logistical issues because to get to Kiriwina, you need to go by boat.
We only have dinghies here at the Alotau station so we had to requisition a boat from PNG Ports, but by that time it was already late so we went this morning,” said the superintendent.
At the moment, the Losiua Station is quiet as relatives of the deceased combatants are in mourning over the loss of their loved ones.
“The people have stopped fighting to mourn their dead, however my men will be maintaining their presence on the island to ensure that no violence ensues as there is still tension between both parties,” PPC Barkie said.