11 suspects arrested for damaging ballot papers in the Aitape-Lumi by-election

A total of eleven [11] suspects have been arrested by police over the weekend for allegedly damaging a ballot box and assaulting a security personnel, forcing an early closure of the polling during the Aitape-Lumi By-Elections.

According to police the incident happened in Pou Village of Aitape West Local Level Government.

Assistance Commissioner Border Command Steven Francis says the 11 suspects are now in Aitape Police Cell to be formally charged.

He says in Lumi's East and West Waipei LLG polling has proceeded well with no major incidents reported.

"The only unfortunate disturbance occurred at Pou Village where one ballot box was completely destroyed, but overall security arrangements across all LLGs have been effective with good support from the communities," ACP Francis said.

Commander Francis urged the people of Aitape Lumi, especially the supporters of the six candidates contesting elections to continue to respect the election process and maintain peace during polling.

He also expressed his appreciation to the West Sepik Provincial Administration, Aitape-Lumi District Administration, Provincial Election Staff and Police Personal from West and East Sepik Provincial Command for their combined effort in ensuring there is a successful delivery of the voting phase of this By-Election.