Police launch full investigation into Karkar island killings

Police in Madang Province have launched a full investigation into the brutal beheadings of two men on Karkar Island, with authorities vowing to identify and prosecute everyone involved.

Provincial Police Commander Superintendent Robert Baim said investigators are working to establish how the killings occurred and why the victims, reportedly suspects in an earlier murder, were attacked while under police custody.

“This is a very disturbing and barbaric act,” Superintendent Baim said. “Initial reports indicate the deceased were already in police custody when the attack happened. This is a serious breach of the law and will be fully investigated.”

The killings are believed to be linked to a retaliatory attack following a separate murder on Thursday night along a track between Dimer and Urugen villages on inland Karkar.

A Madang Police Task Force team was deployed to the island early Friday to stabilise the situation, secure the area, and gather evidence. Forensic officers and detectives have since been dispatched to assist with the investigation.

Baim said police are now interviewing witnesses and community leaders from both Gial and Urugen villages to piece together the sequence of events.

“Our focus is on collecting all available evidence and ensuring those responsible are held accountable,” he said. “We are treating this as a murder investigation of the highest priority.”

Police are also investigating claims that illicit substances such as homebrew and marijuana played a role in fuelling the violence.

“Many of today’s serious crimes are committed because of alcohol and drug abuse. Despite repeated awareness campaigns, some continue to ignore the dangers and consequences,” Baim said.

He urged those involved to surrender immediately and warned that police will not tolerate individuals taking the law into their own hands.

Superintendent Baim confirmed that a coordinated security operation remains in place on Karkar Island to prevent further violence while investigations continue.

“Madang Police Command is committed to upholding the rule of law, protecting civilians, and ensuring justice is served for the victims and their families,” he said.

Police have appealed to anyone with information to come forward and assist the investigation.