New Ireland Provincial Police Commander

The East New Britain-based unit was deployed to New Ireland at the end of May to assist with the escalating law and order situation.

“They were here for almost three months, making insertion into the province before elections for the Tigak Operations,” said PPC Nebanat.

“This was carried out successfully, restoring peace in the Tigak group of islands by laying to rest the chaotic situation that was affecting the island communities for the last three years.

New Ireland Provincial Police Commander, John Mindi, said all six were arrested and charged with attempt to cause genocide.

They appeared in court on Monday for their first mention.

Last month, a bomb was found somewhere near the Peter ToRot Conference Centre, where the counting of Kavieng Open and New Ireland Regional was taking place.