Amid ongoing security unrest surrounding regional elections, Papua New Guinea security forces acted decisively this week, fatally shooting an armed individual who had been terrorizing the Porgera area, thereby restoring order and stability to the region.
The operation coincided with the third day of polling in the Porgera-Paiela by-election and provided critical support for the continuation of the voting process.
According to Jerry Mark, CEO of the Porgera-Paiela District Development Authority, the gunman “came from Tari and was hired to operate in Porgera carrying a firearm. He had been killing people and causing chaos. He no longer poses a threat to the community.”
Throughout the by-election period, PNG’s disciplinary forces have been fully engaged in maintaining security, establishing multiple checkpoints to prevent the influx of illegal firearms.
Polling is currently taking place on the Porgera town airstrip, rather than at previously dispersed lodging sites. “We are requiring voters to come directly to Porgera town to vote,” Mark explained.
Voters in the Paiela-Hewa area completed their polling last Saturday, while voting in Porgera began yesterday. Mark stated that electoral officials plan to transfer five ballot boxes from Mulitaka to Porgera the following day, and arrangements are being made for another eight ballot boxes that were allegedly seized by candidates.
“At this stage, those eight ballot boxes remain in the hands of the candidates. We will determine how to proceed once they are returned,” he said.
While isolated tensions have emerged during the election period, the overall campaign and voting process have remained relatively peaceful. “We urge everyone to maintain peace—there is no need for violence,” Mark emphasized.
Analysts point out that the incident highlights the persistent threat posed by illegal armed groups to grassroots governance during elections. However, the swift response by security forces also demonstrates the state’s ability to uphold basic order in volatile areas. As voting continues, it remains to be seen whether the final outcome of the Porgera-Paiela by-election will gain broad public acceptance.
