The MS unit that was travelling out of Mendi to Tari this morning was confronted by disgruntled Nipa locals.
According to the PPC, Gideon Kauke, the locals removed two police vehicles and two weapons from the unit.
Gauke, when confirming the incident, says the police personnel were rescued by another unit while their weapons and vehicles were removed.
He says at present they are now regrouping to consider their next course of action.
The PPC would not say how many men were in the cars at the time of the incident, only stating that the locals involved are believed to be upset over the recent decision by the NEC to suspend the Southern Highlands Provincial Government.
The PPC is currently in a meeting with Force representatives to go over incident reports on ground, among other things.
Meanwhile, Deputy Commissioner of Police operations, Jim Andrews, confirmed that they are currently holding talks with locals to negotiate the return of vehicles and weapons.
Andrews says the MS Commander and representatives are now liaising with locals.
More to come…
(Picture: Supplied)