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Firearm violence, gun control and small arms
PNG Authorities Worried About Arms Smuggling
18 April 2013
Pacific Islands News Association (Fiji)
The Royal Papua New Guinea Constabulary (RPNGC), Australian Federal Police and PNG Customs are very concerned about the high number of illegal firearms entering the country.
Former senior police officer Chief Superintendent Donald Yamasombi made this comment following a joint Police and Customs bust of a huge quantity of firearms, gun powder and accessories late last year.
Yamasombi said despite the bust involving a large quantity of illegal firearms, prominent... (GunPolicy.org)
All Guns Recovered After Break-In at PNG Police Headquarters
18 April 2013
ABC News (Australia)
PORT MORESBY - Papua New Guinea police have recovered a number of weapons stolen from the force's national headquarters in Port Moresby.
Papua New Guinea police have recovered a number of weapons stolen from the force's national headquarters in Port Moresby.
A total of fifteen handguns or pistols, a .22 rifle shot gun and 150 rounds of ammunitions were stolen from the firearms registry office in the PNG Police Headquarters.
Police say most of the guns were recovered... (GunPolicy.org)
PNG Government Buys 32 'High-Powered' Guns, for Guards
25 January 2013
Post-Courier (Port Moresby)
Papua New Guinea's acting Clerk of Parliament Simon Ila has purchased 32 high-powered guns and about 10,000 ammunition for Parliament security guards at a cost of K556,000.
This is on top of side-arms for some Ministers and Members of Parliament who also have armed personnel from the Special VIP protection Unit.
Among the purchase was a very high-powered weapon only issued to the military and for special forces – the HK MP7 A1 which cost K38,500 for one, with its 30... (GunPolicy.org)
PNG Parliament Denies Buying Guns After Alleged Security Threat
25 January 2013
Business Spectator / Australian Associated Press
Papua New Guinea's parliamentary speaker has denied reports the acting clerk has bought $A250,000 of machine guns for parliamentary security.
The Post-Courier on Friday carried a front-page story citing a letter by acting clerk Simon Ila to police officials advising of the purchase despite the objections of police commissioner Tom Kulunga.
PNG's parliamentary speaker, whose office denied knowledge of the purchase on Thursday night according to the paper, cancelled a... (GunPolicy.org)
Marijuana Found at Airport, PNG Police Suggest Gun Running Plot
5 December 2012
Post-Courier (Port Moresby)
PORT MORESBY – In Papua New Guinea, a major drugs-for-guns trade syndicate operating between Tari in the new Hela province and Daru in the Western province involving the use of light aircrafts was uncovered last Tuesday in Tari, Hela province.
Third level airliner Missionary Aviation Fellowship (MAF) workers in Tari become suspicious when two youths fronted up in the morning with their bags to travel to Balimo in Western province.
Tari MAF port manager Mr. David... (GunPolicy.org)
PNG Govt to Address Illegal Gun Issue, Assault Weapon Ban Considered
24 October 2012
Post-Courier (Port Moresby)
Prime Minister Peter O'Neill has assured the people of Papua New Guinea that the government will act on recommendations of a public inquiry to outlaw firearms in the country.
Mr O'Neill said this when responding to questions during Question Time in Parliament yesterday by Enga Governor Peter Ipatas about law and order problems and the use of illegal firearms.
Governor Ipatas said law and order had become a serious problem in the country and asked why Parliament should... (GunPolicy.org)
Papua New Guinea Finds Success with Restorative Justice After War
28 September 2012
Science Magazine
Papua New Guinea has a fearsome reputation for violent conflict. Between 1991 and 2010, about 500 clan wars killed about 1% of the Enga, the nation's largest linguistic group. But on page 1651 of this issue, researchers document an astonishing turn toward peace among the Enga. Starting around 2005, the people began to rely on compensation in village courts to resolve offenses that once might have triggered war, and by 2011, few Enga waged war. "Now people don't want... (GunPolicy.org)
Singapore,Indonesia,Australia,Papua New Guinea
Papua New Guinea Police Arrest Man Over Alleged Gun Smuggling
14 September 2012
Pacific Islands News Association (Fiji) / Post Courier
A substantial amount of gun powder, live bullets, firearms and accessories were seized by the National Criminal Intelligence Unit (NCIU) of Lae police and Border Security officers in Lae recently.
The weapons and gun powder were confiscated following a police intelligence report of alleged gun smuggling into the country, and especially through the Lae port.
On Tuesday this week, police arrested an Indonesian man and charged him with four counts of unlawfully dealings... (GunPolicy.org)
Read More: Pacific Islands News Association (Fiji) / Post Courier
Melanesia,Papua New Guinea,Australia,Solomon Islands,New Caledonia,Oceania
Concern in Papua New Guinea Over Gun-Related Crime, Trafficking
3 September 2012
Inter Press Service News Agency
BRISBANE - In Papua New Guinea, the largest island nation in Melanesia in the southwest Pacific, where more than 60 percent of major crimes involve guns, a burgeoning illegal arms trade is associated with lack of employment growth and low human security, with vulnerable communities suffering the consequences.
This is the case in the autonomous region of Bougainville in the east of the country, where disarmament remains elusive more than ten years after a civil war... (GunPolicy.org)
Papua New Guinea Politician Arrested for Illicit Firearms
14 June 2012
Islands Business International (Fiji)
PORT MORESBY, PNG - Election security forces in the Papua New Guinea Highlands have taken a candidate into custody after they say they uncovered a cache of guns in his house. The Post Courier newspaper reports soldiers and police raided the candidate's home near Mount Hagen in Western Highlands Province and confiscated several weapons and ammunition. The candidate, a leading businessman, voluntarily surrendered to police and was released after being questioned. But... (GunPolicy.org)
Indonesian Students Call for a Gun Registry
14 June 2012
Antara News (Indonesia)
JAYAPURA, Papua - The Indonesian Papuan University Students Movement (GMPI) has requested that local police again compile an inventory of gun ownership by civilians in Indonesia's eastern most province of Papua.
The security authorities must address security problems by establishing an inventory of firearms ownership in Papua, GMPI Chairman Habelino S Sawaki said here Thursday.
He made the statement following shooting incidents in Papua during the last few... (GunPolicy.org)
Warn of Increase in Guns in Papua New Guinea Ahead of Elections
4 May 2012
Pacific Islands News Association (Fiji)
At least three current Members of Parliament from the Enga Province and their people have been amassing guns in preparation for the general elections, the head of the Gutnius Lutheran Church said yesterday.
The Gutnius Lutheran Church is based in the Enga Province. "I know them," he said. Bishop David Piso said supporters of the three MPs are saying they are gathering guns to use against their political opponents.
"This is very frightening and I am now thinking very... (GunPolicy.org)
Papua New Guinea MPs Urged to Set Example by Handing In Their Guns
2 May 2012
Pacific Islands News Association (Fiji)
Gun smuggling in Papua New Guinea (PNG) is a multi-million kina business which police are powerless to deal with, Deputy Police Commissioner Simon Kauba says.
And he had suggested that parliament implement the recommendations of the guns summit committee to address the problem to some extent.
Parliamentarians raised concern last week over the serious issue of firearms build-up in the country, especially in the highlands provinces, on the eve of the national... (GunPolicy.org)
Sudan,Syria,Russia,China,Papua New Guinea,Fiji,Oceania
Pacific Nations Push for Global Arms Trade Treaty to Curb Gun Trade
19 March 2012
ABC News (Australia), Transcript
Every year illicit trade in small arms results in thousands of deaths. Most of them in developing countries, including the Pacific, where the impact of gun violence has been devastating.
Now the international community is to meet at the United Nations to finalise the first ever global arms trade treaty.
HELEN HAKENA, WOMEN'S RIGHTS CAMPAIGNER: I was seven months pregnant when gunmen came into our village terrorising the entire village community. My house was burnt to... (GunPolicy.org)
More Rumours, No Evidence of Indonesia-Papua New Guinea Gun Running
19 March 2012
Pacific Islands News Association (Fiji Islands)
There is an arms build-up between Vanimo and Green River in the border areas of West Sepik province, a Papua New Guinea Customs official said.
He said intelligence indicated that guns were being smuggled into the country from five locations in Indonesia.
While there were customs operations in Vanimo and Wutung, "there is none in Bewani, Imonda, Kembratoro in Amanab and Green River".
"These are strategic locations, including open jungle where illegal trade and... (GunPolicy.org)
Proliferation of Home-Made Guns Out of Control in Papua New Guinea
31 October 2011
Radio New Zealand International (Shortwave)
A member of the Pacific Small Arms Action Group says the proliferation of home-made guns in Papua New Guinea is out of control and requires a multi-agency approach to deal with it.
John Toguata, a former PNG police commander and a spokesman for the Coalition Against Gun Violence, says weapon parts are readily accessible in PNG, especially in the Highlands where stockpiles are growing.
He wants the government to allocate sufficient funding and resources to reduce the... (GunPolicy.org)
On Peace Day, UN Notes Papua New Guinea's Gun Control Problems
21 September 2011
Radio New Zealand International (Shortwave)
The United Nations resident co-ordinator to Papua New Guinea, David McLachlan-Karr, says gun control in the country is a matter of urgency.
Marking International Day of Peace, Mr McLachlan-Karr, says PNG is no stranger to conflict, with competition over land, resources and local political tensions often leading to violence.
He says the most affected by fighting are very often the most vulnerable - the women, children and the elderly - who are least able to defend... (GunPolicy.org)
Papua New Guinea Island Authorities Powerless to Deal With Illegal Guns
25 April 2011
ABC News (Australia)
Recently we reported on the stalled efforts to dispose of the weapons that fuelled the decade-long civil war on the island of Bougainville in Papua New Guinea.
Ten years after a peace agreement ended the conflict, hundreds, possibly thousands of weapons are still in the hands of former combatants and criminals.
Bougainville's government says it doesn't have the money or expertise to solve the problem and has called for international help.
The issue's importance has... (GunPolicy.org)
Papua New Guinea Gun Culture Threatens Security in Run-up to Elections
6 April 2011
IRIN (UN News)
PORT MORESBY - The proliferation and use of illegal guns in Papua New Guinea (PNG) is threatening security ahead of parliamentary elections slated for June 2012, and causing misery and trauma to gun crime victims, says the government.
The police, the PNG Electoral Commission and the Inter Department Election Committee (IDEC), a government body overseeing election preparations, are aware of the risks in the run-up to and during the elections.
"We are very much aware of... (GunPolicy.org)
Gun Runners Pose 'Major Security Concern' in Fragile Papua New Guinea
4 March 2011
Torres News (Queensland)
The police commander of Papua New Guinea's Western Province says high-powered weapons are regularly being smuggled into the country from the Torres Strait in exchange for drugs.
Commander Peter Philip says not enough is being done to prevent the illegal trade in arms ranging from high-powered, semi-automatic weapons to small arms and shot-guns.
Two weeks ago, a man who attempted to smuggle three firearms from Saibai Island to Daru has been sentenced to 18 months in... (GunPolicy.org)
Indonesia,Papua New Guinea,Australia
Claim: Indonesia, Australia Sources of Gun Running to Papua New Guinea
21 February 2011
BBC Monitoring Asia Pacific / National (Port Moresby)
Western law enforcement authorities have raised concerns about arms smuggling into the province from Australia and Indonesia, saying it is a threat to national security.
Provincial Police Commander Peter Philip said his men had confiscated arms ranging from high-powered semi-automatic weapons to small arms and shotguns.
He also raised concerns that Operation Sunset Merona refugees had been flown into East Arwin refugee camp without consultations with provincial... (GunPolicy.org)
Read More: BBC Monitoring Asia Pacific / National (Port Moresby)
Gun Violence Seen as Sign of Growing Disparity in Papua New Guinea
28 October 2010
Radio New Zealand International (Shortwave)
A spokesperson for Papua New Guinea's Coalition Against Gun Violence says the proliferation of guns in the community is symptomatic of a growing social disparity.
There are calls for action amid fears the presence of guns could undermine development projects.
A former senior police officer, John Toguata, was part of the gun control committee, which toured the country several years ago garnering people's views on what to do about guns, but so far the government hasn't... (GunPolicy.org)
Drinking PNG Policeman Opens Cell, Shoots, Kills Imprisoned Teen
26 October 2010
ABC News (Australia)
A 15-year-old boy is dead after being shot several times by a policeman while in custody in Papua New Guinea.
The teenager was arrested last Friday after the armed robbery of a store in Popondetta.
Local reports say the arresting officer was drinking with the store's owner yesterday when he armed himself with a rifle and went to the police station.
Reports say he then got into the cell where the 15-year-old was being detained and shot him several times at close... (GunPolicy.org)
Papua New Guinea,New Zealand,Oceania,Australia
Lack of Legislation Leaves Pacific, NZ Wide Open to Illegal Arms Trading
20 October 2010
ABC News (Australia), Transcript
A new report on illegal arms trading has singled out New Zealand as an example of a country where weaknesses in company law allow the trade to proliferate.
The report, Brokers without Borders, by the international aid organisation Oxfam, draws on the example of a shipment of conventional weapons that was intercepted in Thailand en route from North Korea to Iran in December last year.
It transpired that the plane chartered to carry the illegal shipment had been leased... (GunPolicy.org)
Government Blamed for Death, Lack of Gun Control in Papua New Guinea
5 July 2010
Post-Courier (Port Moresby)
Post-Courier reporter Sent Timbi was laid to rest at his village, Puntpulg, yesterday amidst a cry for strict gun control and an attack on Government failure in addressing illegal firearms by leaders.
Mr Timbi was allegedly gunned down by relative and Yamka coffee businessman Dokta Maip and his son David on the previous weekend near his village in Ogulbeng, outside Mt Hagen.
During an emotional burial ceremony, lawyer Paulus Kunai and businessman Michael Makop, who... (GunPolicy.org)
PNG Police Commissioner Approved 'Smuggled' Assault Weapons
4 November 2009
ABC Radio Australia (Shortwave)
Papua New Guinea's Police Commissioner, Gari Baki, says he authorised the importation of illegal firearms seized by Customs officials at Jacksons international airport, Port Moresby, last month.
PNG customs officials seized four high-powered assault rifles and a nine millimetre semi-automatic pistol from a passenger on an Air Niugini flight from the Philippines.
The passenger claimed he was working for an arms dealer.
But PNG Customs officials maintain the... (GunPolicy.org)
PNG Police Boss 'Forgot' Signing Import Permit for Assault Rifles, Pistol
30 October 2009
National (Port Moresby), Editorial
We are flabbergasted by Police Commissioner Gari Baki's attitude towards the high-powered guns which Customs seized at the Jackson International Airport over the weekend.
First he said he was not aware of having signed any approvals for the importation of the weapons. Later, he reversed his statement to say he remembered approving the importation of the gun.
He promised to do something about it as soon as he has seen the Customs report on the issue.
Read together,... (GunPolicy.org)
PNG Police Commissioner Admits Approving Assault Weapon Imports
29 October 2009
National (Port Moresby)
Confusion surrounds the ownership and importation of an assortment of deadly weapons that were confiscated by Customs officials from a man coming from the Philippines on an Air Niugini flight into Port Moresby.
On Sunday at 5am, Customs officers seized four high-powered Colt assault rifles and a semi-automatic Glock 9mm pistol from the man after he disembarked PX011.
Customs officials believed the import and luggage declaration documents held by the man were not in... (GunPolicy.org)
Illegal Assault Rifles Seized from Club Shooter at Port Moresby Airport
28 October 2009
National (Port Moresby)
Four high-powered Colt assault rifles, designed for military use, and a 9mm Glock semi-automatic pistol were seized by Customs officers from a passenger arriving from the Philippines on Sunday morning at Jackson International Airport.
Two assault rifle parts were also found in the man's luggage.
The man (named) claimed he was transporting the weapons for a licenced arms dealer, but Customs officers say the man is no longer employed by the firm.
"It is very unlikely... (GunPolicy.org)
Report Finally Tabled: Gun Culture 'Almost Cripples' Papua New Guinea
12 August 2009
Islands Business (Suva)
Three years and 10 months after a government committee looked into the gun issue in Papua New Guinea, Sir Michael Somare's government has finally tabled the committee's report in Parliament.
Internal Security Minister Sani Rambi when tabling the report with its 244 recommendations admitted the country has a very serious gun problem that needs to be tackled as a matter of urgency. The widespread use of illegal guns throughout PNG has affected every sector of the... (GunPolicy.org)
Four-year Delay, 'No Real Progress' in Papua New Guinea Gun Control
16 July 2009
National (Port Moresby)
There has been no real progress towards the implementation of recommendations from the PNG Guns Control Committee.
This is why the report has also been allowed to gather dust.
Internal Security Minister Sani Rambi said this yesterday in presenting his statement, "Recommendations consequent to the nationwide consultations and the PNG Guns Control Summit", in Parliament.
He said 244 recommendations were contained in the guns committee report.
The recommendations... (GunPolicy.org)
Papua New Guinea Parliament Tables 4 Year-old Gun Control Report
16 July 2009
Post-Courier (Port Moresby)
More than 1400 individuals and their families have been hurt or traumatised in instances where guns were reportedly used to commit crimes in the country.
Guns are used to kill people, commit rape, robberies, used in tribal fights and other violent crimes where these weapons play a major role.
Many people in PNG are victims of gun-related incidents while many more have lost loved ones, family members and properties in gun-related incidents.
The widespread increase of... (GunPolicy.org)
Grandmother Shot Dead in Bed as PNG Police Chase, Shoot Suspects
13 July 2009
Post-Courier (Port Moresby)
Three young people lost their sole parental figure, grandmother Taita Kiroki, to a stray bullet in a gun battle between police and alleged car thieves in a Port Moresby settlement early Saturday.
Bubu Taita, as she was known, heard gunshots, raised her head to see what was happening and was struck by a bullet in the neck. Family members say her head dropped to the pillow.
Her three grandchildren had been reared by "Bubu Taita" since their single mother died seven... (GunPolicy.org)
Industry Watchdog Worries About PNG Security Guards Shooting Wildly
10 July 2009
Post-Courier (Port Moresby)
The Security Inspection Authority (SIA), the body in charge of looking after security companies operations in the country has raised concerns about the use of firearms by security companies.
Alphonse Krau manager for licensing enforcement in SIA, yesterday expressed his concern and that of the authority that many firearms, especially high powered ones allowed by the firearms and licensing arm of the police themselves, had been abused.
"Security companies who apply... (GunPolicy.org)
Most MPs Are Perpetrators in Gun Trafficking, Says PNG Security Minister
26 June 2009
National (Port Moresby)
PORT MORESBY — Internal Security Minister Sani Rambi has called on all parliamentarians, especially MPs from the Highlands, to support him when he presents the gun committee report to Parliament next month.
The report, with 244 recommendations on how to stop the escalation of gun violence, was completed in 2005 — and still remains outside Parliament four years later, according to Mr Rambi.
He claimed said some Members of Parliament would not support him because... (GunPolicy.org)
Oceania,United Nations,Australia,New Zealand,Fiji,Solomon Islands,Papua New Guinea
United Nations Gun Chief Says Pacific Has Illicit Small Arms Problem
25 June 2009
ABC Radio Australia (Shortwave), Audio
The United Nations is working to halt the daily toll of one-thousand people around the world killed by small arms. The job of halting the toll taken by small illegal weapons has now been placed in the hands of United Nations Ambassador, Pablo Macedo. Ambassador Macedo is Chair Designate for next year's United Nations Biennial Meeting of States on Illicit Small Arms and Light Weapons.
Speaker: United Nations Ambassador, Pablo Macedo
Windows media (audio... (GunPolicy.org)
Oceania,Australia,Solomon Islands,Papua New Guinea,Fiji,United Nations
Guns Threaten Pacific Stability, Ammunition Controls on Way, UN Told
24 June 2009
ABC Radio Australia (Shortwave)
Guns in the Pacific region have the potential to create chaos, economic damage and social disruption, a conference has been told.
The meeting of Pacific Island officials in Sydney was sponsored by the United Nations Disarmament Office and the Australian Government.
The two-day event, which has just wound up, looked at the scale of the problem and initiatives to tackle it.
It was chaired by Mexico's Pablo Macedo, at his first meeting in charge of steering UN... (GunPolicy.org)
Youths Said Trading Drugs for Assault Rifles in PNG Logging Camp
17 June 2009
Post-Courier (Port Moresby)
Youths allegedly crazed by drugs in Pindiu are selling their illicit cargo to logging camps near Finschhafen on the Morobe Coast to get high powered firearms.
To date, they have obtained a M16 rifle, a pistol and 30 home made guns, Burum Kuat Local Level Government president Dicks Iwong reported yesterday.
Mr Iwong, who is in Lae to plead with authorities to send a police task force to his LLG, said his councillors had told him the youths were gathering a powerful... (GunPolicy.org)
Papua New Guinea Police Minister Mulls Costly Buyback of Illegal Guns
5 May 2009
Post-Courier (Port Moresby)
High-powered firearms will not be surrendered to police as they are viewed as tools for defensive reasons.
This was the sentiment shared by Police Minister Sani Rambi when asked about the possibility of high-powered firearms ever being surrendered in relation to the idea of the guns buyback strategy implemented by him last year.
When asked how far he was with a draft on the guns buyback strategy, he said that he was yet to draft a submission as it required a... (GunPolicy.org)
WWII US Army Dumps Still Yield Papua New Guinea Gun Crime Ammo
12 March 2009
Post-Courier (Port Moresby)
The people of Torokina have been assured the issue of selling World War II ammunition will be dealt with by the Autonomous Bougainville Government.
The chiefs in South Bougainville are happy with the response from the Bougainville Executive Council (BEC).
Torokina district, the place that hit the headlines when youths turned to selling World War II ammunition to the public and business houses, has been assured the ABG will deal with the issue and some projects there... (GunPolicy.org)
Gun Violence a 'Way of Life' in Papua New Guinea, Women Badly Affected
12 March 2009
Post-Courier (Port Moresby)
The use of guns to commit crimes such as murder and rape has become a way of life in many parts of the country and something has to be done about it.
Eileen Kolma, country representative for Oxfam International, said this when addressing International Women's Day celebrations in Port Moresby yesterday.
The event, organised by the Australian High Commission as part of Australia Week and attended by women from all walks of life, heard that guns, which were used for... (GunPolicy.org)
Illegal WWII US Ammo Sales 'Rife' in Bougainville, Papua New Guinea
26 February 2009
Post-Courier (Port Moresby)
Illegal sales of wartime ammunitions is rife in the Autonomous Region of Bougainville.
World War II ammunition left over from the Bougainville crisis are being dug up from old bunkers in one of the United States' biggest WW2 bases in Torokina, and sold openly on the streets of Buka.
Self loading rifle (SLF) bullets are going for K10 a piece and M16 bullets are selling for K20 each.
Reports reaching the Post-Courier office in Buka say bullets have also been traded for... (GunPolicy.org)
13 Guns, Drugs Seized Near Papua New Guinea Border with Indonesia
7 January 2009
Post-Courier (Port Moresby)
A local businessman from Daru in the Western Province supporting the anti-gun coalition assisted police during the Christmas and New Year periods by airlifting 10 high-powered rifles.
Provincial police commander Peter Philip who arrived in Moresby late Monday afternoon said despite a trouble free festive season, the guns trade between the Indonesian and PNG-Australian treaty villages (Maputawan, Sikabaduru and Kunini) was still going on due to the lack of... (GunPolicy.org)
Grenades, 'Rocket Launcher' Found in Papua New Guinea Plane Luggage
6 January 2009
Australian Associated Press
A rocket launcher and nine grenades have been found in the luggage of a passenger on a flight in Papua New Guinea.
The unnamed man was being questioned at the Mt Hagen police station, PNG's National newspaper reported today.
Police seized the weapon and ammunition after discovering them at the Mt Hagen airport in PNG's Highlands region last Wednesday.
They also discovered a scope that is believed to be part of the rocket launcher.
Police arrested the Southern... (GunPolicy.org)
Youths Raid Police Armoury in Papua New Guinea, Steal 17 Shotguns
18 December 2008
Post-Courier (Port Moresby)
Police in Northern Province have arrested two suspects in connection witth the break in at the Popondetta police armoury where 17 shotguns were removed in the early hours of last Thursday morning.
Provincial police commander Supt Micah Anaiwe has confirmed police recovered eight firearms the following day and they have stepped up operations and were on full alert.
Supt Anaiwe said yesterday from Popondetta that of the 17 shotguns stolen, nine were operational while... (GunPolicy.org)
Islands 'Traumatised by Gun Culture,' Gun Control Urged in Bougainville
26 November 2008
ABC Radio Australia (Shortwave)
There has been a call for the government of Bougainville and the international community to do more to deal with the gun issue in the south of the autonomous PNG region.
Three residents of south Bougainville involved in peace-building work in the region have told a seminar at the Australian National University in Canberra the south is being traumatised by the weapons culture.
Unresolved conflicts from the region's civil war and the breakdown of traditional authority... (GunPolicy.org)
Illegal Guns, Armed Violence Still 'A Major Problem' for Bougainville
20 October 2008
Post-Courier (Port Moresby)
The presence of weapons throughout the Autonomous Region of Bougainville is a major problem for the Autonomous Government.
Ministers Joseph Watawi (Trade and Industry, Tourism, Customs, Quarantine, Port Services Micro Finance), Ezekiel Massatt (Police, Public Service, Planning) and Glynne Tovirika (Veteran Affairs) and Gerard Sinato (Health) attended a reconciliation ceremony at Sanakova village in the Selau/Suir District of North Bougainville.
The same sentiment was... (GunPolicy.org)
Plundered Police, Army Guns Fuel Violent Crime in Papua New Guinea
12 October 2008
ABC News (Australia)
The Papua New Guinea Government is set to make sweeping changes to the country's guns laws to curb violent crime.
For many years, criminals have had easy access to factory-made weapons to commit crimes.
They are the weapons of choice for Papua New Guinea criminals — standard police and army issue high-powered rifles.
Over the years, PNG's armoury has been plundered to such an extent, no one really knows how many guns are in criminal hands.
This is how former... (GunPolicy.org)
Tougher Gun Control Needed to Curb Violence in Papua New Guinea
9 October 2008
ABC Radio Australia (Shortwave)
The Papua New Guinea government is being called on to make sweeping changes to the country's guns laws to curb violent crime.
For many years, criminals have had easy access to factory made weapons to commit crimes.
Former Defence Force Commander Jerry Singirok now heads up the country's gun control commitee.
He's calling on parliament to introduce changes to PNG's gun laws, particularly looking at better mangaging the firearms registry and keeping tabs on who owns... (GunPolicy.org)
Leaders Who Carry, Condone Guns in Politics Obstruct Peace in PNG
22 September 2008
Post-Courier (Port Moresby)
A "Peace Meal" to remember the victims of gun violence throughout the country was hosted by the Coalition to stop Gun Violence in Port Moresby last Friday.
Deputy chairwoman of the coalition, Vavine Gabi said the peace meal was also to reach out and hold hands with the community — the public and private sectors as well as individuals — to share its experiences and to say no to guns.
The peace meal coincided with the global week of action against violence and the... (GunPolicy.org)
Police Minister Reckons Most Crime in Papua New Guinea Involves Guns
18 September 2008
ABC Radio Australia (Shortwave)
Papua New Guinea's police minister Sani Rambi says 60 per cent of crimes committed in PNG involve small arms and light weapons.
The National newspaper quotes Mr Rambi as saying the government needs to create incentives for people to voluntarily hand in their weapons.
He says tougher legislation is needed to control their use and removal from communities.
Mr Rambi says small arms and light weapons are fast becoming a means of security and protection as well as a... (GunPolicy.org)
Gun Control for Police, Prisons, Weapon Buyback in Papua New Guinea
16 September 2008
Post-Courier (Port Moresby)
Internal Security Minister Sani Rambi returned from participating in the United Nations summit on Arm Violence and Development in Geneva.
The summit was a follow up of the Small Arms and Light Weapons Conference held in New York earlier this year which he attended with Police Commissioner Gari Baki.
Mr Rambi who arrived very early yesterday morning, attended the third bi-annual meeting mid July this year in which his idea before Parliament on the buying back of guns,... (GunPolicy.org)
Gun Licensing, Ownership to Be Audited, Tightened in Papua New Guinea
19 August 2008
National (Port Moresby)
All firearm licence transfers and renewals will go through a stringent screening process consistent with the Firearms Act chapter 310, police Commissioner Gari Baki announced yesterday while reaffirming the constabulary's commitment to tackle crime in the country.
Mr Baki, who is also the registrar of firearms, said gun holders wishing to renew or transfer their firearm licences, especially handguns and pistols to new owners, would have to conform to Government... (GunPolicy.org)
Police Officers Charged Over Armed Bank Robbery in Papua New Guinea
22 July 2008
ABC Radio Australia (Shortwave)
In Papua New Guinea, four police officers have been charged with being in possession of firearms while in the company of a known bank robber.
Our reporter in PNG, Firmin Nanol, says one officer was in police uniform when he was arrested.
The four officers have been remanded in custody after being denied bail.
Police have also arrested another key suspect behind a series of armed kidnappings and bank robberies.
The suspect has been on the run since escaping from... (GunPolicy.org)
UN to Spend up to US$5 Million on Gun Control in Papua New Guinea
22 July 2008
National (Port Moresby)
The United Nations would make available up to US$5 million to combat and eradicate illegal guns in Papua New Guinea, Internal Security Minister Sani Rambi said at the Jacksons International Airport in Port Moresby yesterday.
Mr Rambi, Police Commissioner Gari Baki and PNGDF officer Capt (navy) Max Aleale had just returned from an international conference on small arms and light weapons in New York.
Mr Rambi said PNG was among 140 nations that attended the meeting as a... (GunPolicy.org)
PNG Police Chief Issues 'Shoot to Kill' Order, Urges Critics Not to Overreact
15 July 2008
Post-Courier (Port Moresby)
Police Commissioner Gari Baki made a call yesterday for the public and human rights advocates to not misinterpret his directions for police to shoot and kill criminals caught wearing police uniforms.
"I do not want to be drawn into a media debate but the relentless sentiments and criticisms in the media has prompted me to clear the air on this issue," Mr Baki said.
"By using police uniforms to carry out their evil acts criminals are clearly demonstrating their... (GunPolicy.org)
Papua New Guinea Tells UN of 'Radical Action Plan' to Curb Illegal Guns
14 July 2008
Pacific Magazine
PORT MORESBY — Papua New Guinea Internal Security Minister Sani Rambi will announce an executable plan to deal with illegal guns when he returns from a four-day international forum on gun control in New York.
Rambi told Pacific Magazine said his delegation is comprised of PNG Police Commissioner Gari Baki and other government officials. They left Port Moresby yesterday morning to attend the Biennial Meeting of States on Small Arms and Light Weapons in New York City,... (GunPolicy.org)
Papua New Guinea,United Nations
Papua New Guinea, Commonwealth Discuss Global Gun Trade Treaty
13 July 2008
ABC Radio Australia (Shortwave)
The build up of small and light weapons in Papua New Guinea's autonomous island of Bougainville has raised some concerns for the national government.
Pacnews reports … PNG Justice Minister Dr Allan Marat raised the issue with his Commonwealth colleagues during a meeting in Edinburgh.
Dr Marat says he discussed the possibility of an arms trade treaty between Commonwealth nations.
He said there was a heavy proliferation of weapons in the PNG highlands, and that arms... (GunPolicy.org)
Australia Sponsors PNG Police Minister to UN Gun Control Talks in New York
11 July 2008
Post-Courier (Port Moresby)
Internal Security Minister Sani Rambi will soon announce a plan to deal with the illegal guns issue in the country.
Mr Rambi will announce the plan soon after attending the Biennial Meeting of States on Small Arms and Light Weapons in New York, America next week.
Mr Rambi, with his delegates, will leave the country over the weekend to present the position of the Papua New Guinea Government in dealing with illegal guns in the country and also to explore practical ideas... (GunPolicy.org)
Licensed Gun Owner, PNG Leader Twice Raided by Police Before Murder
29 June 2008
Post-Courier (Port Moresby)
Mt Hagen police conducted a couple of raids between 2007 and 2008 in search of illegal firearms in the house of the suspect in the killing of Post-Courier reporter Sent Timbi.
Police are still holding onto three high-powered weapons which were taken during a raid at the suspected businessman's homestead, acting Metropolitan Superintendent John Kale said yesterday. The raids were conducted following tip-offs of a pile of illegal high powered weapons.
Highlands... (GunPolicy.org)
PNG Police Appeal for Gun Information, Surrender of Weapons in Chimbu
26 June 2008
Post-Courier (Port Moresby)
Chimbu police are appealing to the public to give information on illegal firearms in the province.
Provincial police commander Chief Superintendent Joseph Tondop made the call during an agreement signing ceremony in Kumbal near the Western Highlands-Chimbu provincial borders on Saturday.
Mr Tondop commended local leaders for taking the initiative to broker peace and bring development by signing such pacts for peace and unity for member groups, which included more... (GunPolicy.org)
PNG Opposition Praises Minister for Gun Buyback Plan, Urges Much More
24 June 2008
Post-Courier (Port Moresby)
The Opposition has praised Internal Security Minister Sani Rambi for taking a bold move to start acting on the recommendations of the National Guns Summit in dealing with the illegal gun issue.
Member for Dei Puri Ruing commended Mr Rambi for taking the initiative even though the Government had not acted to take follow-up actions since it was presented with the report in 2006.
However, Mr Ruing suggested that the full implementation of recommendations should be done... (GunPolicy.org)
Police Minister Plans Buyback of Illegal Guns in Papua New Guinea
23 June 2008
Post-Courier (Port Moresby)
The Government is willing to buy back illegal guns from the possession of the ordinary Papua New Guinean Minister for Internal Security Sani Rambi has said.
Mr Rambi recently said unlawful guns in the hands of wrong people with criminal instincts must be removed as they were doing lots of damage and holding back the positive development progress of the country.
"As Minister responsible, I'm for the idea of buying back guns from people who illegally possess them," Mr... (GunPolicy.org)
PNG Police Minister Vows Action to Curb Proliferation of Guns, Gun Crime
23 June 2008
Post-Courier (Port Moresby)
Minister for Internal Security Sani Rambi is looking at curtailing organised crime and the guns issues in the country.
Mr Rambi made it clear last Thursday the Government was fully conscious of the recent rise in organised crime together with the increasing number of illegal guns threatening the internal security of the country.
He said the Police Department was addressing these issues which were the major threats to the internal security of the country.
"As Minister... (GunPolicy.org)
National Gun Buyback Planned to Curb Crime in Papua New Guinea
23 June 2008
Radio New Zealand International (Pacific shortwave)
The Papua New Guinea Police Minister, Sani Rambi, says his Government is planning a nationwide gun buyback scheme as part of efforts to reduce crime.
He says too many illegal guns are in the hands of the wrong people.
Mr Rambi told the Post Courier newspaper he is weighing up on the issue of time and cost to attack the root cause of an upsurge in organised crime.
The paper quotes the Minister saying he is for the idea of buying back guns from people who illegally... (GunPolicy.org)
Read More: Radio New Zealand International (Pacific shortwave)
Police 'Check' Gun, Bullet Pierces Courtroom Wall in Papua New Guinea
20 June 2008
TVNZ News / AAP
A Papua New Guinea court saw more evidence than it wanted when a handgun exhibit was accidentally fired, leaving a bullet hole in a courtroom wall.
Police are now under investigation after the confiscated gun went off in Port Moresby District Court, in PNG's capital, on Thursday.
The gun had been taken from senior public servant Anton Semoko, who was in court at the time to answer a charge of unlawfully possessing the weapon.
PNG's National newspaper reported... (GunPolicy.org)
Fraud Boss Pans Parliament for Neglecting 3yr-old PNG Gun Summit Report
17 June 2008
Post-Courier (Port Moresby)
Worries have been raised over the delay in the tabling of the guns control report in Parliament.
Speaking to reporters in Madang yesterday development practitioner of the fraud and corruption activity management team John Toguata said while the guns control report had been completed in 2006, and a copy of the report given to the Prime Minister Sir Michael Somare, it had yet to be tabled.
Mr Toguata said the police review had been conducted at about the same time as... (GunPolicy.org)
Gun Smuggling Said 'Rife' in Papau New Guinea, But Evidence Still Absent
21 May 2008
Post-Courier (Port Moresby)
Guns are brought into the country in logging ships and exchanged with locals for money and animal species in the country.
This was revealed by a project officer in Kikori, Gulf Province yesterday while listing the items confiscated by the Internal Revenue Commission team from a Chinese logging ship bound for Kikori.
The officer, Max Malau, who has several health projects in Kikori and who travels there frequently, said the items like liquor, cigarettes, fertilisers,... (GunPolicy.org)
Papua New Guinea Gun Control Coalition Deplores Government Inaction
19 May 2008
Post-Courier (Port Moresby)
More parliamentarians need to support the campaign to remove the threat of illegal firearms in Papua New Guinea.
This was the wish raised by the chairman of the Gun Control Coalition, Oseah Philemon, last week.
He commended Justice Minister Alan Marat and Enga Governor Peter Ipatas for their stand on the issue.
"On behalf of the Gun Control Coalition I would like to thank Dr Marat and Mr Ipatas for raising the very important issue of guns and their widespread illegal... (GunPolicy.org)
Papua New Guinea Politicians Must 'Deal with Gun Issue as National Crisis'
9 May 2008
Post-Courier (Port Moresby)
The development of Papua New Guinea is under serious threat with the ever increasing number of illegal guns in many parts of the country.
The Post-Courier editor in chief Oseah Philemon said this after he was awarded a Divine Word University UNESCO Communication and Development award for reporting on gun-related issues in the country.
Mr Philemon said gun-related incidents against innocent people were frequently reported in the media. "Is this the kind of legacy we... (GunPolicy.org)
Authority Pleads with Bougainville Businesses to Surrender Illegal Guns
15 April 2008
Post-Courier (Port Moresby)
Businessmen in Kokopau at the northern tip of Bougainville Island have been called on to surrender their illegal firearms.
The warning was issued by district manager for the Selau Suir based at Kokopau, Anthony Tsora.
"There are certain business people here in Kokopau who are holding on to unregistered firearms and discharging them at will," he said.
"Let it be known that guns are not firecrackers that you could just own to make a loud noise. I have names of business... (GunPolicy.org)
Bougainville Residents Want 'Outside Force' to Seize, Destroy Illegal Guns
10 April 2008
Post-Courier (Port Moresby)
A concerned citizen says a majority of the people from Central Bougainville want an intervention force to deal with the weapons issue.
The citizen, a long-time resident of Arawa Town who did not want to be identified, said the silent majority of Bougainvilleans were fed up with the Autonomous Bougainville Government's claims the weapons disposal issue could be solved by Bougainvilleans themselves.
"This is an outright lie by the ABG. Bougainvilleans are dying as a... (GunPolicy.org)
Three Years On, PNG Gun Summit Report Remains Unread by MPs
8 April 2008
Post-Courier (Port Moresby)
More parliamentarians need to lend their support to remove the threat of illegal firearms presented to Papua New Guinea, the chairman of the Gun Coalition, Oseah Philemon said yesterday.
While congratulating Justice Minister Dr Allan Marat and Enga Governor Peter Ipatas on their comments on the issue in Parliament last week, Mr Philemon said the Gun Committee's report and recommendations were the property of the Government and it alone could do as it wished with the... (GunPolicy.org)
Papua New Guinea Deports Australian 'Illegal Immigrant' on Gun Charges
21 February 2008
Sydney Morning Herald / AP
Papua New Guinea authorities have deported an Australian man who was facing charges of firing a gun in a public place.
Philip Tan, 41, a Malaysian born in PNG who became an Australian citizen when he was 18, was on Wednesday flown to Brisbane after illegally entering PNG six months ago.
Tan, a nightclub manager, was on police bail to appear in court on March 4 for allegedly firing a gun near a car yard in Port Moresby, PNG's National newspaper reported.
"He was... (GunPolicy.org)
Criminals 'Borrow' Police Guns to Commit Crimes in Papua New Guinea
15 February 2008
Post-Courier (Port Moresby)
A police firearm from a police station in Port Moresby was allegedly borrowed by criminals and used in a recent robbery.
The policemen are also known to be working with criminals in crimes in the city and throughout the country.
While supporting Police Commissioner Gari Baki's announcement of an investigation into crooked policemen and women, three retired chief sergeants said there was huge corruption in the police hierarchy.
The three retired chief sergeants —... (GunPolicy.org)
Owners of Illicit Guns in Papua New Guinea Suggest Buyback, Death Penalty
23 November 2007
National (Port Moresby)
Gun-related problems in the country will continue to stay unless the National Government introduces a "buy-back gun policy" or impose death penalty in the country.
Dokta Puk, who claimed to represent 100 criminals and ordinary villagers with guns in the Western Highlands province, who are willing to come out with their guns to assist police in the province, said the current laws were too lenient.
Mr Puk said unless the National Government imposed death penalty on any... (GunPolicy.org)
Papua New Guinea Gun Control Coalition Urges Ban on Toy Firearms
7 November 2007
National (Port Moresby)
The National Government has been called upon to ban the import and sale of toy guns in the country.
And there should be stricter monitoring systems in place, especially at the international borders.
The recommendations on the gun report by the guns control committee headed by Maj-Gen (retired) Jerry Singirok had already been accepted by the National Government but needed to be tabled in Parliament.
Vavine Gabi, a survivor of gun violence who lost her mother in 1999,... (GunPolicy.org)
PNG Coalition for Gun Control Calls on Govt to Ban Toy Guns for Christmas
6 November 2007
Post-Courier (Port Moresby)
The Government has been called on to stop the importation of toy guns and all forms of miniature weapons.
The chairman of the Coalition To Stop Gun Violence (PNG), Oseah Philemon, told reporters yesterday that the body he heads and supported by many Papua New Guineans was trying to stop gun violence and yet children were encouraged to use toy guns which were available in shops through out the country.
Mr Philemon appealed for parents not to buy toy guns or any... (GunPolicy.org)
Main Papua New Guinea Newspaper Pushes for Gun Control, Toy Gun Ban
6 November 2007
Post-Courier (Port Moresby), Editorial
Supermarkets, department stores and trade stores throughout Papua New Guinea sell all kinds of toy guns, pistols, bombs and other types of war weapons.
These are not real weapons but replicas.
Parents looking for cheap presents for their male children happily spend a few kina buying these for the children to play with at home.
Although this may amount to nothing serious, it does raise an issue about the kind of culture parents are trying to engrain in the minds of... (GunPolicy.org)
I Wanted UN Ambassadors to Know How It Felt When My Mother Was Shot
23 October 2007
Control Arms Weblog (New York), Web Page
My name is Vavine Gabi and I have flown thousands of miles from my country to tell UN delegates about my experience of armed violence. My mother was shot dead in front of me eight years ago, just after my sixteenth birthday. She has been in my thoughts every day since then, but I felt her presence particularly strongly yesterday, as I prepared to give a speech to urge states to push for a strong ATT.
The event I spoke at was organized by Control Arms to highlight the... (GunPolicy.org)
PNG Gun Control Coalition Urges Politicians, Leaders to Give Up Their Guns
17 October 2007
National (Port Moresby)
Leaders, especially politicians who have guns have been called on to lead by example and surrender their guns in response to the campaign against guns violence launched early this year.
The call was made by members of the Coalition to Stop Gun Violence in Papua New Guinea during a press conference held in Port Moresby last week.
The group, which is made up of women groups, help organisations, NGOs, church organisations, human rights groups and development agencies,... (GunPolicy.org)
Former Army Boss Warns Gun Violence 'Out of Hand' in Papua New Guinea
17 October 2007
National (Port Moresby)
Former PNGDF chief Major Jerry Singirok, who is also the chairman of the Guns Committee, said "gun violence" is getting out of hand in many PNG societies today.
While stressing this, he called on the Government to seriously look into addressing the issue before it becomes a norm in most societies.
Major Singirok (retired) said there had been a significant rise of "gun violence" in PNG and many women, especially young girls would fall victims to this helpless situation... (GunPolicy.org)
Papua New Guinea,United Nations
I Watched a Gunman Shoot My Mother: PNG Survivor Lobbies at the UN
16 October 2007
Age (Melbourne), Opinion
My suitcase packed and airport taxi booked, I checked my wallet once again. I flicked through my passport with its newly stamped visa for the United States and the accompanying letter. It was addressed to Miss Vavine Gabi and invited me to attend the UN First Committee on Disarmament in New York.
My task was to lobby diplomats from the Pacific region as they prepared to draft an international treaty on the arms trade. I would be working with policy experts from Control... (GunPolicy.org)
Gun Violence in PNG: UN Hears Local Woman Who Saw Mother Shot Dead
15 October 2007
National (Port Moresby), Editorial
In the past week, we have witnessed the tabling of a petition in Parliament protesting against violence inflicted upon women.
And we have witnessed the total lack of a meaningful response from the newly elected Government.
That can hardly be surprising — the parties that have formed the loose coalition that now leads Papua New Guinea nominated less than a dozen women to contest 80-plus seats in Parliament.
Why would such people have any interest in the plight of... (GunPolicy.org)
PNG's Coalition to Stop Gun Violence Attracts Strong Line-up of Supporters
12 October 2007
Post-Courier (Port Moresby)
Former Papua New Guinea Army General Jerry Singirok has called on the Somare-Temu Government to address the gun issue and the 244 recommendations made by the guns control committee. Mr Singirok said the report on the gun issue was endorsed by both coalitions last year.
However, when the committee of the coalition to Stop Gun Violence presented the report the Government it has done nothing about the report. The former Army General said the report also indicated that... (GunPolicy.org)
Papua New Guinea,United Nations
At UN in New York, PNG Shooting Survivor Pushes Global Gun Trade Treaty
12 October 2007
Post-Courier (Port Moresby)
It was the Queens Birthday weekend in 1999 when they were on their way home to Gabagaba village, along the Magi Highway in the Central Province to enjoy the weekend with relatives when a terrible event happened.
Just past Gaire village and as Vavine Gabi sat at the back of the vehicle, six armed men without masks attacked and robbed the family of everything in their possession.
"They took everything from us," she said.
Vavine said she was still sitting in the vehicle... (GunPolicy.org)
Gun Violence Destroying Papua New Guinea: What Is Government Doing?
12 October 2007
Post-Courier (Port Moresby), Editorial
The Queen's Birthday weekend of June 1999 was a weekend the Gabi family of Gabagaba village in the Central Province looked forward to enjoying with relatives and friends.
It was midday when they were on their way to the village. Just past Gaire village along the Magi Highway, criminals attacked and robbed them of everything they had. Six men were involved.
Having robbed the family of everything, they then asked the mother if she had anything else that they should... (GunPolicy.org)
Papua New Guinea Gun Violence Survivor Joins UN Gun Trade Treaty Talks
10 October 2007
Post-Courier (Port Moresby)
A survivor of gun violence in Papua New Guinea has been invited to share her experience at the Global Consultation on an Arms Treaty (ATT) at the United Nations in New York this month.
Vavine Gabi from Port Moresby witnessed the shooting of her mother during an attempt roadside robbery.
Gabi is supported by the Control Arms Partners, the Coalition to Stop Gun Violence (PNG), Oxfam PNG and the International Action Network on Small Arms (IANSA Pacific).
She will join... (GunPolicy.org)
Papua New Guinea Registers Increased Use of Illegal Guns
11 September 2007
Radio New Zealand International (Pacific shortwave)
Papua New Guinea's former military commander, Major General Jerry Singirok, says the use of illegal guns has become more widespread in the two years since a series of gun summits around the country.
Major General Singirok told an ethics seminar last week that police figures show that ten rapes a week are committed at gun point.
He says the use of guns in tribal fighting is more and more common, including current clashes in Enga.
Major General Singirok says apart from... (GunPolicy.org)
Read More: Radio New Zealand International (Pacific shortwave)
Political Will Needed for Papua New Guinea to Tackle Illegal Gun Issue
11 September 2007
Radio New Zealand International (Pacific shortwave)
The Papua New Guinea government is being told it must show the political will to deal with the growing problem of illegal guns in the country.
PNG's former military commander, Major General Jerry Singirok, who headed a gun control committee that sought views around the country two years ago, says the government has ignored their report.
He says there are more guns in circulation now and they are posing a greater problem in terms of security and threats to the... (GunPolicy.org)
Read More: Radio New Zealand International (Pacific shortwave)
Papua New Guinea Police Officers Implicated in Smuggling Guns for Drugs
24 August 2007
National (Port Moresby)
Certain police officers have been implicated in drug and gun-smuggling activities in Western province and will be investigated by a senior officer from Port Moresby.
The investigator was due to arrive in Daru yesterday.
Southern region police chief Asst Comm Jim Wan said pending the investigations, the officers suspected to be involved would be placed on suspension.
He said in a statement from Daru yesterday the officers were implicated by anti-narcotics detectives... (GunPolicy.org)
Leaked Weapons Feed Gun Culture's Deadly Toll in Papua New Guinea
23 July 2007
Al Jazeera (Qatar)
PORT MORESBY — The disappearance of 5,000 guns from police and military armouries in Papua New Guinea has added a dangerous element to crime in the country.
High-powered factory-made weapons are now in the hands of tribal fighters and criminals, replacing more traditional bows and arrows and raising fears that existing tribal and gang conflicts may get even more deadly.
In the highlands of Papua New Guinea, guns have become a part of life.
For tribal fighters,... (GunPolicy.org)
PNG Member of Parliament Slapped with Gun, Ammo, Drug Charges
12 July 2007
National (Port Moresby)
A Member of Parliament was arrested and locked up after a firearm, ammunitions and marijuana were found in his vehicle.
Sitting Member for Kerowagi Open Alphonse Willie was arrested and charged with being in possession of a firearm, ammunitions and marijuana by Mt Hagen police on Tuesday night.
Provincial police commander Chief Supt Wini Henao said yesterday, Mr Willie was arrested on Tuesday night at 8pm at a police roadblock.
Mr Henao said the MP was slapped with... (GunPolicy.org)
PNG Warriors Pose for Photos With Assault Rifles Stolen from Police, Army
9 July 2007
Sydney Morning Herald
Unable to resist the camera, some of the most notorious tribal warriors in the Papua New Guinea Highlands have posed with their high-powered illegal weapons — and linked themselves to an armed robbery.
When about 30 armed men staged a military-style operation to rob a big business in Mount Hagen six weeks ago, part of the loot was a digital camera lying on an employee's desk.
On returning to their villages, the robbers and their fellow tribal warriors took about 60... (GunPolicy.org)
Two Men Shot in 'Assassination Attempt' on PNG Deputy Prime Minister
13 June 2007
Xinhua
Two men were reportedly injured when gun shots were fired at a rally staged by Papua New Guinea (PNG)'s Deputy Prime Minister Don Poyle.
Poyle was speaking at the rally in the Eastern Highlands province, Australian Broadcasting Corporation radio reported Wednesday.
PNG's local media reports described the incident as an assassination attempt on the deputy prime minister.
Poyle said he was saved by his body guards who whisked him away in a car.
In a separate... (GunPolicy.org)
Unless Gun Violence is Addressed it Will Destroy Papua New Guinea
17 May 2007
Post-Courier (Port Moresby)
Coalition to Stop Gun Violence (PNG) chairman Oseah Philemon says unless the gun violence is addressed it will destroy this country.
Mr Philemon said on FM100's talkback show yesterday the report from the Guns Control Committee, following a summit in Goroka, which recommended leaders or candidates should not be supported by armed groups nor should they own guns.
The report, he said, was never acted on by the Somare Government and urged the new government to treat the... (GunPolicy.org)
Government's 'Singular Lack of Action' Spurs PNG Gun Control NGO
3 May 2007
National (Port Moresby), Editorial
The group that gathered for the launch of the Coalition Against Gun Violence on April 30 numbered less than 20. Certainly, there was none of the excitement or the six-digit funding that accompanied the launch of the Gun Control Committee and the nationwide Gun Road-Show culminating in the Gun Summit in Goroka in July 2005.
What the group lacked in numbers, they made up for in the import of their mission and by the size and importance of the organisations they... (GunPolicy.org)
Papua New Guinea Women Link Tribes, Decry Guns, Prevent Tribal Wars
1 May 2007
Post-Courier (Port Moresby)
The use of guns has prolonged a tribal fight in Kup area of Chimbu Province, for 30 years.
But thanks to a group of women, peace has been restored and services finally coming in.
President of Kup Women for Peace (KWP), Angela Apa told of how three women, including herself, had decided to do something about the warfare that had destroyed many lives and stopped all basic services, including schools and health in the area.
Many adults in the area today, she said, had... (GunPolicy.org)
Cost of Gun-related Injuries 'Bigger than AIDS/HIV' in Papua New Guinea
1 May 2007
ABC News (Australia)
The head of the Medical Society of Papua New Guinea claims the cost of treating gun-related injuries in PNG is almost $US7 million a year.
Doctor Mathias Sapuri's comments came at the launch of The Coalition to Stop Gun Violence in Port Moresby.
He's told the Post Courier newspaper there must be no delay in dealing with the gun issue.
He says the PNG Medical Society joined the coalition because doctors have seen that gun-related injuries are costly to treat and... (GunPolicy.org)
Gun Related Injuries Cost Papua New Guinea US$7 Million Each Year
1 May 2007
Post-Courier (Port Moresby)
A medical doctor has put the cost of treating gun-related injuries at K20 million a year — money which the Government does not budget for.
President of the the Medical Society of Papua New Guinea, Dr Mathias Sapuri, said this in Port Moresby yesterday at the launch of the Coalition to Stop Gun Violence (PNG), adding there must be no delay in dealing with the gun issue. He expressed the society's interest in joining the coalition because doctors have seen that... (GunPolicy.org)
