Government minister involved in highway collision

Police have launched an investigation into a traffic accident involving the Minister for Energy and Kairuku MP, Peter Namea Isoaimo, following a collision on the Hiritano Highway on Monday night.

The accident occurred at approximately 8:00pm at the Goldie Junction. Central Provincial Police Commander [PPC], Chief Inspector Joseph Salle, confirmed that two vehicles; one belonging to the Minister and another driven by a PNG Defense Force (PNGDF) soldier, have been impounded at the 15 Mile Police Station.

Initial reports suggest the accident took place as Minister Isoaimo was traveling towards Port Moresby. The PNGDF soldier was traveling in the opposite direction, heading towards Laloki.

According to PPC Salle, the incident was triggered by a maneuver to avoid deteriorating road conditions.

It was alleged that the soldier, traveling in a small vehicle, was trying to avoid a pothole at the junction and drove inwards, at the same time, Isoaimo switched lanes, which resulted in the collision.

The soldier sustained injuries in the crash and was treated at the scene by St John Ambulance before being transported to the hospital for further medical care. Police units secured the scene shortly after the impact to prevent further incidents.

The accident involving the Minister is just one of several high-profile incidents recently recorded in the province. PPC Salle confirmed that another accident occurred along the Magi Highway at Tubuseria village on Monday afternoon, and a vehicle belonging to Kana Construction was involved in a separate wreck over the weekend.

The PPC expressed grave concern over the safety of the region's main arteries, outlining the sharp spike in road trauma since the start of the year.