Nine killed in tribal clash over mobile phone dispute in Kainantu

A tribal fight triggered by a domestic dispute has left nine people dead including two students in the 2-Mile settlement outside Kainantu town in Eastern Highlands Province.

According to Kainantu Police Station Commander, Senior Inspector Steven Yalamo, the violence stemmed from a dispute between two cousins over a mobile phone. Both individuals are from Tuinpinka village, located approximately 2 kilometers outside of K92 mine site.

Inspector Yalamo confirmed to NBC News on Thursday that the conflict began on June 23rd.

"It's only a minor issue that should have been settled at the initial stage,” he said. "The police went in there soon after the matter was reported, and appeal for the leaders to hand over the suspects so that they can deal him appropriately but unfortunately, the leaders did not hand over the suspect.”

He explained that tensions escalated as the suspect was not surrendered, leading to a full-blown tribal clash by Wednesday. The confrontation resulted in nine deaths, including a University of Goroka [UOG] student and a Maritime College student from Madang.

In addition to the fatalities, homes and food gardens were destroyed, and several families have been displaced.

Despite the unrest, Yalamo has assured the public that the Highlands Highway remains safe for travel.

"My policemen are monitoring the situation and are working to restore calm and understanding between the people of Kainantu's two mile," the inspector said.

Meanwhile, Police investigations are ongoing to capture the suspects involved in the killings.