3 dead, several injured in Kundiawa riot

Three people are dead and several others hospitalised after a riot broke out in the counting centre in Kundiawa, Simbu Province.

The incident occurred at around 7am on Sunday.

A source told TVWAN news that supporters of sitting MP Tobias Kulang tried to enter the counting centre when they were stopped by members of the public, which then led to a big fight.

Provincial Police Commander, Alex N’Drasal, confirmed that Kulang is in police custody in Goroka, firstly for his own safety, and to wait out his court hearing.

PPC N’Drasal said Kulang’s first court appearance this morning did not eventuate because there was no judge to see to it.

The sitting-MP was charged by the Kundiawa Police investigation team with wilful murder and inciting riot in Kundiawa town.

Kulang will not be brought to Kundiawa because tension remains high in the Simbu provincial capital.

Author: 
Salome Vincent