Police Commissioner David Manning has issued a stern 48-hour ultimatum as of Thursday this week to illegal squatters in Porgera Valley, warning them to vacate or face forced removal. He said the deployment of additional joint security forces over the past days is to enforce the directive. Commissioner Manning emphasized that these squatters have unlawfully occupied land without rightful claim, exploiting the area during the mine closure to commit crimes and disrupt peace. In a statement, he said this is a final chance for squatters and troublemakers to depart voluntarily. “Following consultation with stakeholders, including the Porgera Valley community, provincial and district administrations, private business, and National Government agencies, police have no other option but to remove the illegal squatters who are threatening peace and good order.” “These troublemakers are illegally taking up private lands to make illicit profit and they don’t care who they hurt or what they damage.” “This greed is harming the businesses and communities of the Porgera Valley.” “This is a matter that crosses several areas of sectoral responsibility and as such is a whole-of-government response.” He said while police are taking a firm, but fair approach to evicting illegal settlers, partners such as the provincial and national government agencies will be taking a firm but fair approach to shady businesses and individuals who enable illegal settlers to exploit these communities. “My message is clear: If you do not have lawful employment or residence in the Porgera Valley, you should not be there.” “If you are supplying to, buying from, or enabling illegal squatters, your activities will be put under the microscope by every relevant Government agency.” “I warn that if any person seeks to harbor, hide, aid or abet those who are to be removed or operating illegal enterprises, they also will face charges. “The Porgera Valley is home to both communities and critical economic infrastructure.” “These illegal squatters and their disrespect for the law, for communities, and private businesses, pose a risk to security and good order.”