Shootouts over gold mine kill 30 in Papua New Guinea

Tribal conflicts are a frequent occurrence in Papua New Guinea’s highlands, but an influx of automatic weapons has “turbocharged” the most recent bout of violence, according to police.

The Porgera gold mine once accounted for around 10 percent of Papua New Guinea’s yearly export earnings, but tribal violence and a slow government takeover have stalled production in recent years.

A witness, speaking to Radio New Zealand, described the recent levels of violence as “unprecedented”.

At least 26 people were killed, including 16 children, when three villages in East Sepik province were attacked earlier this year.

In 2022, gunfights between rival clans living near the mine killed at least 17 people.

Security teams have been posted along the highway leading to the mine, using loudhailers to broadcast messages of peace.

Pope Francis urged Papua New Guinea to “stop the spiral” of violence during a visit earlier this month.

“It is my particular hope that tribal violence will come to an end,” he said.

“It causes many victims, prevents people from living in peace and hinders development.”

The BBC has reached out to PNG Police for comment.