DOT Desk: At least 26 people were killed, including 16 children, during violent attacks on three Papua New Guinea villages last week, the United Nations said Wednesday, warning the final death toll could pass 50, reports Dhaka Tribune.
“I am horrified by the shocking eruption of deadly violence in Papua New Guinea, seemingly as the result of a dispute over land and lake ownership and user rights,” UN rights chief Volker Turk said in a statement. He said the attacks on the three villages in East Sepik province on July 16 and 18 had also seen more than 200 villagers flee “as their homes were torched.” The UN high commissioner for human rights called on PNG authorities “to conduct prompt, impartial and transparent investigations and to ensure those responsible are held to account.” “It is also vital that victims and their families receive reparations, including adequate housing, effective protection against further attacks and necessary psychosocial support,” he said.
Turk also urged authorities “to work in and with the affected communities to address the root causes of land and lake disputes, and so prevent recurrence of further violence.” His comments echoed a call made by his office back in February calling on PNG to address the root causes of escalating tribal violence in the country after dozens were killed.