Police swift action cool down highly possible trouble fight in Gumine

Simbu police have been praised for their quick action that stopped a violent tribal fight in the Gumine District today.

Police said the fight started after a PNG Defence Force soldier on leave was attacked by youths from the Era tribe during a drinking brawl yesterday. Members of the Era and Kalubiagao tribes then began fighting early this morning in Digine LLG.

Provincial Police Commander Superintendent Mazuc Rubiang said five houses were burned and several people were injured, but no one died.

He said both tribes had high-powered guns and planned to continue fighting today, but police intervened early.

“This fight would have affected travelers and services, and people could have died, but we stopped it in time. I led my team to the site at 4:00 a.m., dispersed the crowds, and prevented the escalation,” Rubiang said.

After police mediation, both tribes agreed to stop fighting and hold peace talks tomorrow.

Local leader Michel Kaupa thanked the police for arriving on time, saying their presence saved lives.

The situation is now calm, Gumine Highway is open, and police are still monitoring the area.