Three (3) suspects are now in police custody while a further suspect is yet to be apprehended and handed over to police as investigations continue into the recent alleged sexual assault of a nurse in Alotau, Milne Bay Province. "I condemn the crime on the young nurse - I condemn all criminal activities on Milne Bay people." "It is a sad day for our healthcare workers in Milne Bay. We are working hard to make MBP a crime free province like it was back in the day," said Alotau Police Station Commander Snr Inspector David Kaumara. Commander David Kaumara confirmed that police apprehended two suspects yesterday and one this morning involved in the sexual assault on the nurse on Monday night at Mutuyuwa, just outside of Alotau town. Snr Inspector Kaumara said the as a result of the incident, healthcare workers in the province took the streets to stage a peaceful protest march yesterday calling for the safety and respect of healthcare workers and to put to bed the cycle of violence faced by the health workers. "It was an eye opener for the public for health workers to stage their peaceful march from the town to Mutuyuwa and back around the whole town calling for an end to all forms of violence against nurses and doctors. It's a slap in the face for our government workers," said Snr Inspector Kaumara. He thanked the Mutuyuwa Ward Councillor and the people for assisting police in the joint operation in the area to apprehend the suspects involved. Mutuyuwa Ward Councillor Makalau Saking also shared his grief towards the victim and her family and has condemned the actions of youths from within his ward who were involved in the incident. “We don't tolerate rape and it is unacceptable in all societies in Papua New Guinea." Saking further added that in taking ownership, the people of Mutuyuwa Ward are now working closely with police to ensure that justice is served. Alotau MP Charles Abel was not on ground but condemned in the highest possible manner, the actions of those involved in the sexual assault and demanded for their immediate arrest. "It goes without saying that any such violence against innocent citizens is completely unacceptable. In this case, to attack our hard-working health staff is a big shame. Arrests must be made and these animals be brought to justice!" Mr Abel said. Pictures courtesy of: Eaerua Samoa Samuel