Prime Minister James Marape has strongly condemned an armed ambush on Enga Provincial Police Commander (PPC) Chief Superintendent Steven Harris and his team, describing the incident as a direct attack on the rule of law and the authority of the State.
Chief Superintendent Harris was travelling in a police convoy near Yaltep, just before the Sirunki Strawberry Farm, to arrest suspects tied to an ongoing murder investigation when gunmen opened fire without warning.
Three police reservists accompanying Harris immediately shielded him from the gunfire, returned fire, and helped secure the area.
Papua New Guinea Defence Force (PNGDF) personnel who heard the shooting swiftly responded to support the team, allowing the police commander to safely continue his journey.
Prime Minister Marape commended Harris, the reservists, and the PNGDF personnel for their bravery and discipline under extreme danger.
“This was a cowardly and calculated attack on a senior police officer who was carrying out his constitutional duty to uphold the law and protect the people of Enga,” Prime Minister Marape said.
“I strongly condemn this ambush. An attack on our police personnel is an attack on the State, the rule of law and every law-abiding citizen who wants to live in peace.”
“I commend Chief Superintendent Steven Harris for remaining calm and focused under fire. I also pay special tribute to the three police reservists who placed themselves between their commander and the gunfire.”
“Their courage, loyalty and quick response helped protect lives and demonstrated the highest traditions of service.”
“I also thank the PNG Defence Force personnel who responded to the sound of gunfire and helped secure the area.”
“This cooperation between our police and defence personnel is vital as we restore peace, security and respect for the law in Enga.”
Prime Minister Marape emphasized that the Government will not allow armed criminals to intimidate public servants, police, or local communities, warning that the full force of the law will be brought against those responsible, as well as anyone providing them with assistance, shelter, or weapons.
“The criminals responsible must understand that they cannot hide forever,” he said. “I call on community leaders, churches, councilors and ordinary citizens in the area to cooperate with police and provide information that will lead to the identification and arrest of the gunmen.”
“Anyone protecting these criminals is helping to prolong violence and suffering in Enga.”
Reflecting on the ongoing risks frontline personnel face, the Prime Minister noted that police officers, reservists, and PNGDF members put their lives on the line daily to protect communities across Papua New Guinea.
He reaffirmed the Government’s pledge to strengthen law enforcement operations and support long-term peacebuilding efforts.
“These men and women leave their families and place themselves in danger to protect our communities.”
“They deserve the support, respect and cooperation of every Papua New Guinean.”
“The Government remains committed to strengthening police operations, restoring law and order and supporting long-term peacebuilding in Enga.”
“We will not surrender any part of Papua New Guinea to criminals, tribal fighters or those who believe the barrel of a gun places them above the law.”
Addressing citizens directly, particularly those in Maramuni, Marape urged people to use lawful channels to air grievances rather than turning to violence, pointing out that two wrongs do not make a right.
“I want to remind the people of Maramuni, and indeed all Papua New Guineans, that if you have legitimate concerns or grievances, there is no need to resort to lawlessness to have your voices heard,” Prime Minister Marape urged.
“If your concerns are not being addressed at the district or provincial level, raise them again through the proper channels.”
“If necessary, submit your petitions or letters to the Enga Provincial Government and to the National Government in Port Moresby. Someone within the machinery of government will attend to your concerns. Two wrongs do not make a right.”
“Breaking the law is never the answer to resolving legitimate issues. Our democracy provides lawful avenues for citizens to seek justice and accountability, including peaceful petitions and, where necessary, the courts.”
Looking ahead as the country moves beyond its 50th anniversary, the Prime Minister called on all Papua New Guineans to embrace peaceful resolution and protect Enga’s future from being held hostage by armed criminals.
“Peaceful advocacy will always achieve more than violence or intimidation. You do not need to fight the Government to have your concerns heard.”
“Raise them through the proper processes, and I have every confidence that someone, somewhere within our system of government will respond.”
“To Chief Superintendent Harris and his team, I say: The Government and the people of Papua New Guinea stand with you. Remain strong, continue your duties professionally and know that your courage is recognized and deeply appreciated.”
“Enga has produced many outstanding leaders, professionals, public servants and businesspeople. Its future must not be held hostage by a small number of armed criminals.”
“The people deserve peace, development and the freedom to move, work, learn and raise their families without fear.”
“Let us all work together to restore lasting peace, uphold the rule of law and build a stronger and more united Papua New Guinea.”
