Police have arrested a third suspect in connection with the burning of the Maprik Police Barracks, raising the total number of people in custody to three.

The latest arrest involves a man police allege played a key role in organizing the incident.

He has now joined two others who were already detained.

All three suspects appeared before the Maprik District Court earlier this week.

A warrant was issued for their transfer and remand to the Boram Correctional Institution while investigations continue.

East Sepik Provincial Police Commander Superintendent Christopher Tamari confirmed the arrest and said police inquiries are still ongoing.

He explained that the incident is linked to unrest that erupted in Maprik following the death of a detainee who had previously escaped from police custody.

The situation escalated into violence, resulting in the burning of a police housing block at the New Town Police Barracks.

Officers and their families were forced to evacuate for safety as a duplex containing five housing units was completely destroyed in the blaze.

According to police, tensions intensified after rumours circulated among relatives of the deceased that he had died while in custody.

The unrest quickly spread as nearby groups moved into the New Town area, though Supt Tamari noted that police eventually restored order with the assistance of reinforcements.

Supt Tamari added that the arrest of the third suspect is part of a continuing investigation, with further arrests still possible.

Police say all suspects remain in custody as they build their case over the arson attack.