Catholic health workers at St. Paul’s clinic in Gerehu harassed and assaulted

The ongoing assault and harassment of staff at the St. Paul's clinic in Gerehu, in the nation's capital has prompted the closure of the clinic, for almost 3 weeks now.

A board meeting today will determine the status of the clinic operations.

The clinic which opened in 2015 through a 1.5-million-kina joint funding by the Australian and PNG Governments has seen break-ins, harassment, and assault of staff - an issue which has been ongoing for several years.

Last year saw two separate incidences in September and November. Catholic Church health services Manager Sr.Geraldine Arua told NBC News, the recent one saw two separate attacks on a male officer and then on an expatriate nun, who is a nursing officer.

Sr.Geraldine said the clinic which sees between 800 to 1000 patients a month, also services patients from Central Province, Gulf Province and expatriates, apart from Gerehu and NCD residents.

The Health Services manager expressed disappointment at the residents lack of care and assistance towards the plight of the clinic staff.

"I just told them I'm leaving.And like, for me, that's discouraging when they did that, saying those type of things to our staffs who are trying to help them in the community.

"And the clinic closed, for me, it's really sad because we don't just treat and look after the ones that stayed, we're looking after almost everyone.

"Also we have clients who are also from the mountains on the other side, the other provinces that are traveling, and also some that are overseas.

"So during the incident when they called the police officer, he said, sorry, I can come, but I don't have any fuel. So for me, you know, it's really sad for things like this to happen, and especially for our religious," Sr. Geraldine said.

But Police say, they were unaware of this incident however will pursue this case.

In the meantime, the Catholic Church health services Manager has called for programs and activities involving youths, especially in the settlement areas of the city to reduce crimes.

NBC News is seeking comments from the relevant authorities on these concerns.