50 illegal firearms surrendered in Tari

About 50 high-powered illegal firearms were publicly displayed in Tari town following a voluntary surrender by local community members under Papua New Guinea’s national gun amnesty initiative.

Among the weapons showcased were several that had been safely safeguarded by John Tipa (Hela Provincial Election Manager) from a previous surrender campaign.

​The event was attended by Minister for Police Sir John Pundari, Hela Governor Philip Undialu, Koroba Lake Kopiago MP William Bando, Tari Residential Judge Justice Andrew Kostopoulos, Acting Commissioner of Police Dr. Philip Mitna, Hela Provincial Police Commander Arau Mairi, senior police headquarters officers and community leaders.

Six brand-new police vehicles were officially handed over to the Hela Police Command to boost mobility and operational response times.

Police Minister, Sir John announced a final extension of the grace period, issuing a stern deadline for all remaining illegal firearm holders to surrender their weapons by December 15.

"From police and PNGDF Intel, we know who owns illegal guns in Enga, Hela, and Southern Highlands Provinces. We will come straight to your house," Sir John Pundari warned. "You have an opportunity now—a golden opportunity—to surrender them before it's too late."

​Substantial cash rewards are being provided to individuals who voluntarily hand over high-powered weapons. Minister Sir John said, if an individual refuses to surrender and is subsequently reported, the monetary reward will be paid to the informant, while the offender faces life in prison.
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He announced that advanced drone technology capable of locating concealed illegal firearms will soon be deployed across Hela Province to hunt down un-surrendered weapons.

Police Minister commended and acknowledged the men who stepped forward to surrender the initial 50 high-powered weapons. He urged remaining firearm holders to follow their example before time runs out.