increasing

Civil disorder increasing

By Stuart Inder

THERE’S serious concern in Papua-New Guinea about increasing disorder, involving rioting and tribal revenge kill ings. The disorder, once con tained in the uncontrolled areas, is becoming more fre quent in the larger urban areas.

The deteriorating situation was stressed at the March meeting of the House of Assembly when Mr. John Pas quarelli (Angoram), initiated a debate as a matter of public importance.

Sixteen members who spoke were unanimous that the num ber of cold blooded murders was on the increase, that to most criminals in the territory gaol was a joke, that people in some areas felt they could no longer depend on protection from police and District Ad ministration officials and that in many territory towns women were afraid to go out alone after dark.

Mr. Pasquarelli said that if things continued as they were, people would soon say the Ad ministration was not in control.

The situation could get out of hand.

Kaibelt Diria (Minj), said Highlands members were wor ried. Simogun Pita (Under secretary for Police) said the police felt they had no support, but with support they “could be strong again”, Paliau Maloat said he was “frightened” to see lawlessness developing in New Guinea as it had in other emerging countries, and the whole country could be wrecked by it. There was not now the influence of the older people.

Speakers in the House made it clear that harsher penalties and stronger action on the spot were needed. Some native members called for hangings.

The Assembly debate gave publicity to a serious territory situation, which most people, particularly in the Highlands, have been aware of for some time. It needs attention urgently.