East Sepik Provincial Police Commander Superintendent Christopher Tamari Is pleased with a community leader who assisted police in the capture and arrest of a murder suspect.
The murder occurred on the afternoon of February 12 at Suaduogum village in Yangoru, East Sepik province. Relatives of the deceased have since retaliated and reportedly burned down eight houses and a church in the village of the suspected murderer.
The community leader is Mr Sam Wafi of Kusambuk area. Mr Tamari said he is grateful for Mr Wafi’s assistance which led police to the successful apprehension of the suspect who is now in police custody. This has helped to prevent further fights within the area.
Mr Tamari confirmed that following the murder families of the deceased burnt down eight houses and a church that was located in the village.
Mr Tamari apologised to the affected communities for the late police response and prevention of damages to innocent people’s properties.
The police investigation is progressing well. PPC Tamari said according to the police brief the deceased and the suspect had an ongoing feud which eventually resulted in the murder on Sunday, February 12, 2023.
The deceased, identified as Nigel Hovi, was in his village when he was approached by two suspects who attacked him and chopped his hands. The deceased then tried to run and seek help but he was hit and run over by an on-coming vehicle. The deceased was taken to Boram but was pronounced dead.
PPC Tamari said murder cases are being reported every week in all six districts of the province. He said serious crimes are being committed daily in Wewak, Yangoru Saussia, Maprik, Angoram, Ambunti-Drekirkir and Wosera Gawi crimes.
“I am calling on the people of East Sepik to respect themselves. If you have anything against your relatives or community members, please find proper ways to solve them instead of resorting to violence. Police are always there to assist. Seek police intervention earlier so we can find some peaceful ways to resolve complaints and disputes instead of resorting to violence”, PPC Tamari said.