Intoxicated youths light up education vehicle in Wau–Waria district

An education vehicle used to deliver services in the Wau–Waria District was burnt by drunkard youths, disrupting education services in remote areas.

Wau–Waria MP Marsh Narewec has condemned the incident, saying it has affected preparations for the academic year.

Narewec said the vehicle was important for transporting teachers and delivering school materials, especially to remote areas including Biaru, Waria, Ono and Garaina.

He said the burning of the vehicle will delay education programs such as teacher repatriation, assistance to schools and student support.

“As a new district, we are already behind in delivering education services, and this incident pushes us further back. This selfish act has affected thousands of children,” Narewec said.

The Morobe Provincial Police Commander, Chief Superintendent Samson Siguyaru, said the vehicle was burnt last Friday, 2nd of this month, at Biawen Village in the Wau Rural Local Level Government area.

He said the driver allegedly lost control of the vehicle and hit a tree. A group of intoxicated youths then chased the driver and passengers and set the vehicle on fire.

The vehicle was completely destroyed.

Chief Superintendent Siguyaru said police have identified suspects and arrests are expected soon.

The driver and passengers were injured and are receiving treatment. Police will interview them once they are discharged.