Police clear highway in Jiwaka

Police in Jiwaka this afternoon cleared roadblocks along the Kuli–Kudjip section of the Highlands Highway, restoring normal traffic flow for the travelling public.

The roadblocks were set up earlier today by frustrated protesters demanding the suspension of newly created ward areas from participating in the LLG election polling, blocking the highway from Kuli to Kudjip along a 10-mile stretch.

Provincial Police Commander Chief Inspector Laimo Asi told NBC News this afternoon that police have cleared the area and restored calm, with officers continuing patrols in red zones to ensure public safety.

PPC Asi confirmed that some protesters attacked police officers at Kuli earlier this morning as they arrived to address the roadblock issue.

He said three officers sustained minor injuries; however, he condemned the attack and urged residents in the Anglimp and Kuli areas to respect the law.

Meantime, the Electoral Commissioner has suspended polling in the Anglimp South Waghi district.

Attempts to get comments from the election manager in Jiwaka this afternoon has been futile.