A violent conflict between rival tribes over control of a gold mine in Papua New Guinea left at least 30 people dead, according to police reports.
Police Commissioner David Manning stated that security forces had been authorised to use “lethal force” to quell the unrest. The BBC also reported a ban on the sale of alcohol and a night-time curfew.
Violence erupted near the Porgera gold mine after Sakar clan members settled on land belonging to the Piande clan in August. The conflict escalated on 15 September when police reported more than 300 gunshots exchanged between the tribes following failed peace talks.
The mine was briefly halted as tensions escalated. Schools, hospitals, and government buildings in the region were also closed, with several buildings set on fire.
While tribal clashes are commonplace in Papua New Guinea’s highlands, police say the accessibility of automatic weapons has worsened the current situation dramatically. Earlier this year, 26 people, including 16 children, were killed in an attack on three villages in East Sepik province. In 2022, 17 people were killed in clashes near the mine.
In response to the escalation of violence, security forces were deployed along the highway leading to the mine. They also broadcast peace messages via loudspeakers.
The unrest also came just days after Pope Francis’ visit. The pontiff called on Papua New Guinea to end the cycle of tribal violence, describing it as an obstacle to peace and development.
