12 Reportedly Dead After Tribal Clashes Near PNG Landslide

Saturday, 1 June 2024, 6:37 pm
Article: RNZ

Eleisha Foon, RNZ Pacific Senior Journalist

Prime Minister James Marape is in Wabag Province to meet with authorities before flying to the site to inspect the damage up close.

Tribal violence between two clans in Tambitanis is still active, reportedly leading to 12 deaths since Saturday last week.

The Provincial Administrator has stated that after 14 days, the affected area will be quarantined with restricted access to prevent the spread of infection, and those who remain undiscovered will be officially declared missing persons.

According to the International Organisation for Migration, 217 people with minor injuries have received treatment, while 17 individuals who had major and minor injuries were treated at the Wabag General Hospital (as of 30 May).

The IOM updated said some patients with major injuries remain in the hospital

Earlier, PNG police chief inspector Martin Kelei told RNZ Pacific people on the ground want the bodies of their loves ones to be retrieved as soon as possible.

Meanwhile, a geotechnical expert from New Zealand, who arrived yesterday, is conducting a ground assessment as the landslip is still moving.

© Scoop Media

RNZ

New Zealand's public broadcaster, providing comprehensive NZ news and current affairs, specialist audio features and documentaries.

Radio New Zealand is a Crown entity established under the Radio New Zealand Act 1995. Radio New Zealand News are vital elements in our programming, providing impartial news and information to New Zealanders every day. Radio New Zealand (RNZ) provides listeners with exciting and independent radio programmes in accordance with the Radio New Zealand Charter.

Contact RNZ

• Website - www.radionz.co.nz
• Twitter - @rnz_news
• Facebook
• Link - Contact RNZ