Daru enforces curfew, tight security after violent unrest

Daru authorities have moved quickly to restore order after violent unrest over the weekend, imposing strict security measures and limiting business operations across the Western Province capital.

A special meeting yesterday involving the Provincial Administrator, senior police officers and representatives of the Chinese business community agreed on immediate temporary restrictions.

Under the measures, all businesses are allowed to open today from 1pm to 5pm, before resuming normal trading hours on Wednesday, 19 November. Liquor sales have been restricted to Mondays, Tuesdays and Wednesdays only.

The town market will close at 5pm daily, with police clearing the area each afternoon until further notice.

A night-time curfew has also been imposed, running from 8pm to 6am for two weeks, with police instructed to arrest anyone found outside during curfew hours. Residents have been urged to remain indoors during these times.

The measures follow riots sparked by allegations that local fishermen were robbed of their beche-de-mer catch by armed masked men while returning from the reef, triggering retaliation that saw several business houses looted.

Authorities say the restrictions are temporary but necessary to protect lives and property.