In Papua New Guinea’s central highlands, a series of shootouts between rival tribes has left at least 30 people dead. The conflict centers around the disputed Porgera gold mine, where tensions have been brewing since August.
The violence erupted when the Sakar clan settled on land owned by their rivals, the Piande clan. Despite failed peace talks, tribesmen fired over 300 shots on Sunday alone.
Police Commissioner David Manning attributed the violence to illegal miners and settlers terrorizing local communities. He warned that security forces would use lethal force to stop the fighting.
To curb the chaos, authorities banned alcohol sales and imposed an overnight curfew. The Canadian-owned mine briefly ceased operations due to the intensifying conflict.
Buildings were set on fire, and essential services like schools and hospitals remained closed. The influx of automatic weapons has intensified the region’s history of tribal conflicts.
The Porgera gold mine, once a significant contributor to Papua New Guinea’s export earnings, has seen production stalled due to Gold Mine Tribal Violence and government takeover attempts.
Earlier this year, at least 26 people were killed in attacks on three villages in East Sepik province. In 2022, gunfights near the mine killed at least 17 people.
Security teams are patrolling the highway leading to the mine, broadcasting messages of peace. Pope Francis urged Papua New Guinea to end the “spiral” of violence.
