31/08/2025
The installation of the water pump has been further delayed - hopefully only for a few weeks.
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“Cross the Border and You Will Be Shot on Sight” — Duma Warns as Security Forces Move into Mt Hagen.
Tue. August 26, 2025 | PNG Online News
MEMBER for Hagen Open and Minister for State-Owned Enterprises, Hon. William Duma, has issued a stern warning to warring tribes in Western Highlands Province, declaring that anyone who attempts to cross into rival territory to instigate further violence will be “shot on sight.”
Speaking after meeting with the Acting Provincial Police Commander (PPC) for Western Highlands, the Commander of Mobile Squad 8 from Kerowagi, and the Officer Commanding soldiers deployed from Wabag, Minuster Duma said the security forces had made their stance very clear.
“Any Melakamb Kungnuka Palga who crosses the border to instigate fighting will be shot on sight. The same goes for the Angumb Andaaklimbs. Anyone who tries to cause destruction in the city precincts will face immediate action,” Mr. Duma said.
He confirmed that more soldiers are being deployed to Mt Hagen to contain the escalating clashes.
Mr. Duma reminded his people that too much blood had already been spilled, noting that the Melakamb Kungnuka Palga had fought the Yamkas, Kuklikas, and even their closest neighbours, the Angumb Andaaklimbs.
“We even fought our own brothers, the Jiga Komb Aklimbs. Today, we have no good neighbours left. This cannot go on any more,” he stressed.
The Minister appealed especially to educated elites, businessmen, church and youth leaders, and family heads from both sides to exercise restraint and put an end to the cycle of violence.
He also warned young men not to be provoked by insults or taunts at the border, saying such provocations were designed to incite further bloodshed.
“We must not fight again today, tomorrow, or in the future. God has blessed us and will continue to bless us, but if my message is ignored, anyone who crosses the border will not return alive,” he said.
While acknowledging that some within his community may hold grudges against him, Mr. Duma reminded them that he remains their Wuta and their brother, urging them to heed his call for peace.
Security forces remain on high alert in Mt Hagen as tensions continue, with authorities reiterating that lawlessness will not be tolerated.
