Police in Morobe Province conducted a raid in West Taraka targeting a wanted suspect allegedly linked to a series of serious criminal offences, including armed robbery, manslaughter, and drug-related activities.

The operation was carried out by officers from the Morobe Rural Criminal Investigation Division and the Lae-based Sector Response Unit on May 26.

Morobe Provincial Police Commander, Samson Siguyaru, said the suspect, who is from Menyamya, allegedly attempted to evade arrest by jumping over a fence and fleeing into nearby bushes during the operation.

Police alleged that relatives and members of the community pursued the suspect and assaulted him with bush knives, causing injuries to his body.

Authorities stated that officers secured the suspect and transported him to Angau General Hospital, where he remains under police guard while receiving medical treatment.

Chief Superintendent Siguyaru said the suspect is expected to be formally charged for allegedly being in possession of illegal drugs. Police officers from Menyamya Police Station are also expected to continue investigations into allegations of manslaughter and other outstanding criminal offences.

Police also confirmed that two alleged accomplices were arrested during the operation and remain in custody pending formal drug-related charges.

“I commend the police officers from the Morobe Rural Criminal Investigation Division and Lae Based Sector Response Unit for their professionalism, commitment, and coordinated efforts in successfully apprehending the suspect and his accomplices,” Siguyaru said.

He also acknowledged the assistance provided by relatives and community members during the operation.

Siguyaru warned youths and individuals involved in criminal activities to refrain from unlawful behaviour, stating that ongoing violence and lawlessness were causing growing frustration within communities.

He urged the public to respect the rule of law and avoid taking matters into their own hands.