Goroka/Mt. Hagen, 28 February 2025 – Papua New Guinea’s Highlands Highway has been fully restored and remains open to traffic following swift police intervention in response to two separate incidents that disrupted the vital economic corridor over the past 48 hours.
Commissioner of Police David Manning confirmed today that a strong and visible police presence remains in place along the highway, with investigations ongoing and one arrest already made.
“Both matters are under investigation and one arrest has been made, with more to follow,” said Commissioner Manning. “The quick resolution of these incidents by Provincial Commands and the Special Services Division demonstrates the growing effectiveness of our Police Force.”
Two Incidents Temporarily Disrupt Highway
The disruptions stemmed from two unrelated incidents:
-
Thursday, 27 February: Police removed an illegal roadblock near Goroka, believed to have been set up by individuals with specific grievances.
-
Friday morning, 28 February: Authorities responded to a vehicle fire near Mt. Hagen, which caused temporary closure and raised concerns about public safety.
Though separate in nature, both events led to delays along the Highlands Highway—PNG’s primary inland transportation artery. Commissioner Manning labelled these disruptions “unacceptable,” particularly given the highway’s economic and social importance to the region.
Vital Infrastructure Must Remain Open
“The Highlands Highway is critical infrastructure, central to the welfare of communities across the region, especially for our small and medium enterprises (SMEs) moving crops and goods to market,” Manning emphasized.
“Communities have every right to air their concerns; however, blocking the highway is not the appropriate way to do it.”
He further noted that families and communities involved in the Goroka incident have since presented a petition, which was received by community leaders in consultation with police. Manning commended the role of local leadership and called on them to continue engaging constructively to prevent further unrest.
Strong, Ongoing Police Response
Police units under the leadership of Deputy Commissioner of Regional Operations Samson Kua, supported by Provincial Police Commands and the Special Services Division, remain on high alert with increased patrols and community engagement strategies along the highway.
“Our policing environment remains challenging, but our investment in leadership and frontline resources is enabling us to resolve volatile matters promptly and professionally,” Manning said.
“High-visibility police patrols of the highway and continuous engagement with local communities will ensure that the road remains safe and open.”
Commitment to Peace and Order
The Royal Papua New Guinea Constabulary (RPNGC) reaffirmed its zero-tolerance stance on any effort to obstruct national roads and urged communities to seek lawful channels to raise concerns.
Commissioner Manning concluded with a call to action for all local leaders:
“I expect community leaders to fulfill their responsibilities—that means working closely with police, promoting peace, and protecting the national interest.”
The restored access to the Highlands Highway is a welcome relief for commuters and businesses alike, with ongoing policing efforts aimed at preventing future disruptions to this lifeline of the Highlands region.