Despite deteriorating road conditions and the remoteness of the target area, a determined police team from Port Moresby successfully apprehended seven suspects linked to a Sorcery Accusation Related Violence (SARV) case in Ganai Village, Abau District. The operation, which required a grueling 18-hour round trip, is being hailed as a major breakthrough for law enforcement in addressing long-standing grievances in isolated communities of Central Province.
The mission was triggered by a renewed report from Ganai Village residents, where a SARV incident occurred two years ago, leading to the death of a man and the destruction of several homes. According to reports, the initial case had been filed at Moreguina Police Station but gained fresh urgency after the victim, who had been brutally assaulted, succumbed to his injuries last month at Port Moresby General Hospital.
Recognising the severity and long-standing nature of the case, Acting Assistant Commissioner of Police Benjamin Turi, Commander of NCD/Central, mobilised support from the Mobile Squad and the Central Provincial Police Commander. Together, they coordinated a tactical operation that culminated in the late-night arrival of four police vehicles in Ganai Village, where the suspects were apprehended without resistance.
Commander Turi confirmed that six men and one woman were taken into custody. The suspects are believed to have either directly participated in the SARV violence, harboured the primary accused, or engaged in related crimes, including the recent assault and arson.
“The suspects cooperated with police when surrounded at around 11 PM,” said Commander Turi. “What was especially commendable was their assistance to officers when the police vehicles became bogged down on the return journey. It reflects how even suspects are aware of the challenges faced by police in reaching remote communities.”
The villagers of Ganai and surrounding areas expressed surprise and gratitude at the presence of law enforcement, having gone without regular access to government services—particularly policing—due to poor infrastructure. The operation has been described by locals as a long-overdue act of justice, helping to heal divisions that have separated families for years.
Commander Turi also used the moment to call for greater cooperation from communities in reporting crimes, stressing that well-coordinated police responses depend heavily on accurate and timely information. “We will act when the information is correct. Operations like this are expensive, and vague reports make our job harder,” he said.
The arrested suspects are now detained at Sogeri Police Station, and the case is under the charge of a Central CID officer. Commander Turi praised his officers for their professionalism and endurance, especially under difficult road and operational conditions.
He also appealed to local leaders to work more closely with police to bridge the gap in law enforcement services. “This successful operation is a message to others that no matter how far or how long it takes, police will come for those who commit crimes. All we ask is that victims and communities support us with the right information.”
The operation stands as a powerful reminder that justice, while often delayed in remote parts of Papua New Guinea, is still possible when communities and police collaborate in pursuit of truth, accountability, and peace.