East Sepik police hunt suspects in two major killings

Police in East Sepik are continuing investigations into two major law and order incidents involving the killing of a student in Maprik and the murder of two elderly women in Wosera-Gawi District.

East Sepik Provincial Police Commander Superintendent Christopher Tamari confirmed that 16 suspects have been identified in connection with the death of a Maprik Secondary School student last Saturday.

The incident happened as students were returning from a rugby match.

Superintendent Tamari said two main suspects have been arrested, while another suspect surrendered to police in Maprik.

The attack also resulted in the destruction and looting of school property worth hundreds of thousands of kina.

Meanwhile, police have also identified suspects linked to the killings of two elderly women accused of sorcery in Wosera-Gawi District.

Police said bad weather and poor road conditions delayed officers from reaching the remote area.

However, police units have now entered Kumunikum Village to continue operations.

During the operation, five suspects, including a woman, escaped and are still on the run.

Police are now working with community leaders to help arrest those involved.

Superintendent Tamari said police remain committed to bringing all suspects before the law.

He also called on communities to work with police and reject violence.

The incidents highlight ongoing law and order problems in parts of East Sepik, including sorcery-related violence and community unrest.