A young woman was violently assaulted during a robbery at the Gordons 15 bus stop early Tuesday morning, highlighting growing concerns about public safety in Port Moresby’s public transport system.
The incident occurred around 7:00am as the victim was boarding a Public Motor Vehicle (PMV) to travel to work. According to the victim, a group of men boarded the bus and began robbing passengers at knifepoint, taking valuables including phones, wallets, and bags.
The ordeal escalated when one of the assailants attempted to forcibly remove the woman from the bus by grabbing her clothing and dragging her toward the door. Witnesses reportedly stood by without intervening as the woman pleaded with her attackers to let her go.
“I kept screaming, telling them they had already taken everything and to leave me alone,” the victim said. “But one of them kept pulling me by my shirt and bra, trying to drag me out. I was terrified.”
Fortunately, the bus driver, who had initially frozen in shock, quickly regained control and drove off, causing the attacker to fall from the vehicle.
The woman was left physically unharmed but emotionally shaken. “No one inside or outside the bus helped me. I was alone, and that hurt the most,” she said. “If the driver hadn’t reacted when he did, I don’t know what could have happened.”
This incident has sparked renewed calls for stronger policing at major bus stops and greater community vigilance, especially during peak travel hours.
Public safety advocates are urging commuters to travel in groups where possible and to report suspicious behavior to authorities. They have also called on the National Capital District Commission (NCDC) and police to improve surveillance and increase patrols in high-risk areas.
There has been no official comment from police at the time of reporting, and it is unclear if any arrests have been made.
The victim, who shared her story to raise awareness, said she hopes her experience will encourage more people to speak up and demand action.
“This could have happened to anyone. It’s not just about me—it’s about making our streets and buses safe for everyone, especially women.”