Magarima, Hela Province — Minister for Bougainville Affairs and Member for Magarima, Hon. Manasseh Makiba, has condemned the recent torture and killing of a woman in Magarima District, describing the incident as “inhumane and shameful.”
In a statement issued on Sunday, Minister Makiba said he was deeply shocked and saddened by the violent act, which allegedly stemmed from accusations of sorcery related to the victim’s husband’s death. He said the brutality inflicted on the woman was a stain on the conscience of society and warned that such behavior could no longer be tolerated.
The Minister recalled that the Sorcery Act 1971 had been repealed in July 2013, and reminded the public that under the amended Criminal Code Act (Section 299A), any killing related to sorcery accusations constitutes willful murder, which carries the highest penalties under PNG law.
Makiba stated that there was no place in modern Papua New Guinea for mob justice or violence against innocent individuals, particularly widows and single mothers who are often falsely targeted. He emphasized that justice must be pursued through lawful and constitutional means.
“The world is watching,” he said, “and Papua New Guinea cannot afford to be a nation where violence masquerades as justice.”
He also confirmed that Hela Governor Philip Undialu had joined him in condemning the act and had demanded the immediate arrest and prosecution of those responsible.
In response, Minister Makiba directed Hela Provincial Police Commander, Superintendent Michael Welly, to begin an immediate investigation and ensure the perpetrators are apprehended without delay.
He also called upon community leaders, ward councillors, and LLG presidents across the district to cooperate fully with law enforcement. Makiba urged both regular and reserve officers stationed in Magarima to treat the matter with urgency and professionalism.
The Minister warned that silence and inaction from communities only embolden such violence. He encouraged citizens to stand with law enforcement, reject violence, and protect the vulnerable as part of a collective effort to end sorcery-related attacks.
Makiba concluded by stating that although the incident marked a dark day for Hela, the province must rise from the tragedy with a renewed commitment to uphold the rule of law and safeguard human life.
