Manning confirms probe into fatal Mendi shooting as community petitions for justice

Police Commissioner David Manning has confirmed a joint investigation by the Criminal Investigation Division [CID] and Internal Affairs is underway into the fatal shooting of a man by police in Mendi, Southern Highlands, earlier this month.

The incident occurred on May 5 at Kiburu Junction, allegedly resulting in the death of a man of the Undiri community.

Commissioner Manning told NBC News that preliminary reports indicate the shooting followed a vehicle pursuit after the driver allegedly failed to stop at a police checkpoint.

"The vehicle was immobilized by police. Occupants of the vehicle confronted police, during which time an adult male brandished what appeared to be a firearm," Manning said. "Attending police discharged a weapon, and the adult male was subsequently declared deceased by medical personnel."

The Commissioner stated that all officers present at the scene have been identified and are currently being interviewed under standard investigative procedures. A second occupant of the vehicle fled the scene and remains at large for questioning.

Manning defended the presence of specialized police units in the region, stating that operations continue to be guided by rigorous security assessments and established legal frameworks. He confirmed further updates as verified details emerge.

The police response comes as tense relatives and Mendi community leaders delivered a formal petition to provincial authorities on Tuesday, demanding immediate accountability.

Handed over by Lower Mendi LLG President James Embia, family representative Willie Dus, and Pastor Steven Tingi, the petition calls for the immediate prosecution of the involved officers and a full audit of the police Rules of Engagement in the upper Highlands.

The family of the deceased has demanded among others, an independent inquiry, activation of local Peace and Good Order Committee, and fair compensation for the bereaved family.

"This presence is not an act of aggression, but a formal and solemn exercise of our constitutional right to seek redress for grievances that have become too heavy for our community to bear alone," the relatives told NBC News.

Leaders warned that local confidence has been severely shaken, and urge the Undiri community to maintain peace during the investigation.

"We must speak, for the sanctity of our homes and the safety of our children have been shattered."