PNG: Violence erupts in Port Moresby and 15 dead over pay ‘glitch’
Papua New Guinea’s capital is recovering from chaos and 15 people have been killed amid angry protests by police, soldiers and public servants after their pay was docked.
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At least 15 people have died in riots across Papua New Guinea’s two largest cities after a payroll “glitch” sparked angry protests by police, soldiers and public servants.
Crowds torched a police car outside the Prime Minister’s office on Wednesday, while shops were looted and the city’s ambulance service reported multiple emergency calls over shootings and fires.
Disgruntled police, corrections officers and soldiers, gathered outside Port Moresby’s main government building, throwing stones and setting fire to a guardhouse, after noticing their pay had been docked without explanation.
Papua New Guinea police commissioner David Manning said eight people died in Port Moresby during riots on Wednesday evening, while seven people died in the city of Lae.
Prime Minister James Marape apologised to public sector workers for underpayments of up to $120 a fortnight, and blamed Department of Finance staff for the error.
“It’s unfortunate that the situation has turned out this way, so uncalled for,” Police Commissioner David Manning said.
“But we are doing all we can to control the situation in the city.”
Crowds tried to smash a chain on a tall security gate outside the Prime Minister’s office, video images showed, before eventually tearing it off its rails.
They then unsuccessfully tried setting fire to a guard post, before eventually torching a white police SUV parked outside the compound.
While security forces started the demonstrations, it was unclear if they were responsible for the ensuing turmoil.
An AFP correspondent based in Port Moresby said a mix of “police, soldiers and civilians” appeared to be involved.
The government said the pay deductions were the result of an unintended glitch, and has promised to fix it promptly.
“I want to appreciate all of you today,” Internal Security Minister Peter Tsiamalili said in conciliatory remarks to protesters before the trouble began.
“I just want to again reassure all our policemen and women that I am here to make sure that your welfare is addressed.”
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Originally published as PNG: Violence erupts in Port Moresby and 15 dead over pay ‘glitch’
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