PPC Lemb calls for strong action after attack in Hinenga village, Kerema District

Gulf Province Provincial Police Commander [PPC] Chief Inspector Jeffrey Lemb is urging the government to take firm action against the people of Hinenga village, Kerema District, following an attack on police officers last Thursday.

The police team, including two Southern Region Mobile Squad units, had traveled to Hinenga village to collect suspects involved in armed robbery and murder. These suspects were meant to be handed over by the village leaders after prior discussions.

Before the operation, PPC Lemb had met with village leader Chief Gilbert Nita to arrange the transfer. However, upon arriving at the village, the police were met with resistance as villagers armed with bows and arrows surrounded them. Despite the tense situation, the police remained calm and did not retaliate.

PPC Lemb attempted to explain their mission using a loudspeaker, stating that they were there to collect the suspects. However, the villagers refused to discuss the matter. With the negotiation at a standstill, the police decided to leave the village.

As they were about to leave, a warrior grabbed one of the police officer’s firearms, prompting villagers to begin shooting arrows at the police. In the chaos, two police dinghies sank, and several officers were forced to swim to safety.

First Constable Alus Mockley was injured by an arrow while assisting PPC Lemb during the attack. The police team eventually returned to their base, where injured officers received medical treatment.

“This act of domestic terrorism and hostility against police is serious and must not go unpunished, every man including youths in that village must be rounded up to face the law.”’

“The Iapkota market has become a trading route for the Kameas. They are smuggling firearms, ammunition, drugs, and food supplies to those who continue to fight against the police and government.

"The government needs to make a clear statement and stand on this act of domestic terrorism by the Kameas and the people of Hinenga against me as the PPC for Gulf and the members of the Police Operation team.

"I strongly recommend that the government and the relevant state agencies analyze this and respond to it in an evocative manner so as to prevent the recurrence of such acts of domestic terrorism by such groups in the future", the PPC said