Finschhafen MP and Minister for Mining & Special Projects, Rainbo Paita, has strongly condemned the brutal killing of four Kabwum citizens in Lae, describing the incident as barbaric and calling for urgent government action to restore peace and uphold the rule of law. “I join Deputy Prime Minister and Member for Lae, John Rosso, in calling for immediate and decisive action following this senseless act of violence. The people of Morobe are peace-loving and respectful. What happened in Lae is not just an attack on individuals — it is an affront to the values we stand for as a province and as a nation,” Minister Paita stated. He described the alleged perpetrators from Enga as having taken the law into their own hands, carrying out brutal and inhumane acts that demand swift justice. “I am utterly appalled and heartbroken by the loss of life in Lae. This kind of senseless violence has no place in our society. My heart goes out to the victims and their families. This is not how we, as Papua New Guineans, should resolve our differences.” Minister Paita urged the National Government and Members of Parliament to take immediate action, emphasizing the urgent need to pass the Vagrancy Act and reconsider the implementation of the death penalty for cold-blooded murderers. “The time for political posturing and delays is over. The safety and security of our people cannot wait. I implore all Members of Parliament to put aside political differences and pass the Vagrancy Act without delay. This legislation is crucial to addressing the root causes of ethnic and urban violence and ensuring lasting peace.” He also called on law enforcement agencies and the judiciary to deliver swift and uncompromising justice. “The law-and-order issues leading to ethnic clashes will further divide our already diverse country. We as a government must be willing to take hard measures to forge this unity that is very important in holding us together going forward.” Minister Paita emphasized that while Morobeans welcome mutual respect, any form of hostility will not be tolerated. He praised Deputy Prime Minister and Lae MP John Rosso for his efforts in stabilizing law and order in Lae City and called on all Morobe MPs to support these initiatives to ensure Lae becomes a safe hub for business, investment, and peaceful living for its people. “For all they that take the sword shall perish with the sword. The death penalty must now be brought into our laws. This punishment will not apply to innocent people but to those who do not appreciate the sacredness of life.” “We can’t continue to call ourselves Christians, yet our thoughts and ways are too far from its guiding principles. The rule of law must be upheld. The Government must not take this matter lightly. The criminals responsible must face the full force of the law, and justice must be delivered to the grieving families.” Minister Paita extended his deepest condolences to the families and communities affected by the tragedy and assured them of his unwavering support in the pursuit of justice.