Supporters of the incumbent and former governor for Western Highlands Province, Paias Wingti have retaliated and burnt down houses in the village of Togoba after the declaration of WHP Governor-elect Wai Rapa on Friday. Provincial Police Commander, Superintendent John Sagom has advised that they have attended to the situation and addressed the community members and leaders and asked for normalcy to prevail in the village. He advised that after a clash between supporters of the incumbent and former governor with other villagers, the fight was taken to the village towards the early hours of yesterday morning and it was determined that 1 semi-permanent building and 1 house had been burnt down. Fortunately, no one was injured. “There was an old man, around the age of 70, sleeping in the house when it was lit on fire. Luckily he made it out in time before the house burnt down,” Supt. Sagom said. The Superintendent condemned the act made by the arsonists and assured that a proper investigation will be conducted into the incident and justice will be served. “Where is the respect for the law? You [the combatants] are affecting the livelihood of a person. In itself the act is inhumane and I condone such acts,” Supt. Sagom said. He advised that after he had a talked with the community leaders, they have reached and understanding with them while the Joint Task Force investigators will be taking over to conduct investigations. PPC Sagom urged both parties to not take up arms and asked for their full cooperation at this time.