Kokoda Tourist

Many say the story is a publicity stunt and suspicion is mounting in PNG with police reportedly questioning the claims.

An article recounting the couple’s experience published on www.dailymail.co.uk attracted over 1000 comments.

One reader said her husband from the North East Of England lived and worked in very remote parts of PNG as a volunteer the 80's.

 “He went to visit a school as part of his project in a very remote area in the jungles of Kokoda where the couple claim they were held captive by their attackers.

Tkatchenko told media he will see commander Kalaut for a briefing at 2pm on the incident and will brief media after.

"What happened in Kokoda, we have to change our mindset," the Tourism Minister said.

Kokoda Tourism Authority chief executive officer James Enage told Loop PNG that the incident is a  first of its kind to happen at the famous Kokoda Track.

"It's an isolated incident (rape) and suspects are in police custody."

Enage said more details will be issued after the 2pm police briefing.