raid

This operation carried out in collaboration with the PNG Defence Force, dealt a significant blow to a suspected large-scale illegal weapons trafficking network that had been fueling tribal conflicts and domestic terrorism activities in the Highlands region.

The meticulously planned operation, executed under the leadership of Commissioner of Police David Manning, led to a series of arrests linked to the weapons trafficking network. These arrests were facilitated by the provisions introduced in the Firearms Act of 2022, championed by the Marape-Rosso Government.

It was dismissed because liability, or who was responsible for the breach, was not established against a timber company, police and others who allegedly conducted the raid.

Andy Asuma is a businessman operating Andy Asuma Trading in a remote location near the Kamusi logging camp in Western Province.

He conducted his business near a timber rights purchase area where Wawaoi Guavi Timber Company Ltd had its logging operations.

Led by the NCD Superintendent Operations, Commander Michael Tilae, more than 50 cartons of assorted alcohol were confiscated.

Tilae told this newsroom that the raid was conducted in accordance with the breach of liquor sales regulations and also the Easter period liquor ban.

The ‘white house’ is a popular hangout for alcohol consumers and/or an afterparty spot for party goers in Port Moresby.

“There were people still in the premises when my team conducted the raid this morning at 7am,” Tilae said.

Between 3 and 5am today, the personnel carried out the raid at the Vadavada settlement area and in the process, detained a family of six.

NCD Taskforce commander, Mark Mosinakave, outlined that the suspects were under surveillance by police who were tipped off about the illegal production they were carrying out.

The raid held six people, a husband and wife, their son and granddaughter and two other male relatives.

The raid produced 160 litres of steam stored in numerous containers as well as pre-packed 500ml containers along with 10 buckets of the illicit spirit.