7 arrested following violent attack on Jiwaka police

Jiwaka Provincial Police Commander [PPC], acting Superintendent Laimo Asi, has confirmed that seven suspects are in custody following a violent confrontation that left a police vehicle destroyed and a policewoman injured last Saturday at Rotbum.

The unrest began when the primary suspect, driving an unroadworthy vehicle loaded with coffee cherries, allegedly defied a roadblock conducted by the Quick Response Force [QRF] at Waghi Bruk along the Okuk Highway.

According to PPC Asi, the driver ignored police signals and sped through the checkpoint. Officers pursued and apprehended the driver a few meters away. He was taken to the Minj Police Station, formally charged for the traffic violations, and subsequently released on police bail.

Following his release, the suspect allegedly organized members of his tribe to set up an illegal roadblock at Rotbum in retaliation. It was at this location that a police patrol unit was ambushed. The vehicle was smashed, and a female officer sustained injuries during the attack.

The suspect initially went into hiding, but following a meeting with local leaders on Sunday, February 8, 2026, a demand was issued for the surrender of all involved.

Asi stated said the primary suspect now faces severe legal repercussions.

“The suspect will be criminally charged with attempted murder and willful damage, as well as relevant charges under the Anti-Terrorism Act,” the PPC said.

A final deadline of 2:00 PM on Tuesday, February 10, was set for the remaining accomplices to turn themselves in. Six additional suspects surrendered on Tuesday afternoon.

While seven men are currently behind bars, PPC Asi said three suspects remain at large and must surrender immediately. This incident marks the sixth time police personnel in the province including the PPC himself, have been targeted.

“I will never tolerate such attacks against my officers in this province,” PPC Asi warned. “This will be the last time.”