Family of slain policeman compensated

L-R: Leader of Tukunjup Tribe Morgan Mendepo presents the cash money as compensation to the Chairman of the SHP Good Order Committee Philip Moya to be handed over to the family of Late Constable Noah Biape in the presence of Upper Mendi LLG President Kevin Sapul (Image: Supplied)

The Tukunjup Tribe of Upper Mendi LLG in the Mendi Munihu District of Southern Highlands Province has paid compensation to the family of slain cop, late Constable Noah Biape.

Late. Biape was killed along the Mt. Paia section of the Highlands Highway in January while travelling back from Hela Province to Wabag in the Enga Province. He was attached to Mobile Squad 11.

Speaking during the event, leader of the Tukunjup Tribe Morgan Mendepo conveyed his heartfelt apologies to the families of the late Noah.

"On behalf of my people, I would like to express heartfelt apologies to the immediate family members of the late Noah. Our people have come together, and we have contributed a total of 19 pigs, K70,000 cash, and two cows. We want peace, and we want to clear our name as all of us are innocent, " Mendepo

Father of the deceased Sargent Henry Biape accepted the compensation as a cultural way of fostering peace.

"I thank the Tukunjup Tribe and all those involved in ensuring that peace prevails. I accept this apology, and I will still be in pursuit of justice, "Sergeant Biape.

Meanwhile, another K80,000,15 pigs and 1 cow was also paid to the family of late Constable Harry Gorano in Goroka. This brings the total up to K150,000,34 pigs and 2 cows.

The police, provincial good order committee, community leaders, and all those involved in producing this outcome were acknowledged.