Prime Minister Hon. James Marape has expressed deep sorrow and outrage following the brutal torture and murder of a woman in Hela Province, an act reportedly fuelled by false accusations of sorcery.
The incident, which occurred over the weekend in a remote part of the Highlands, has shocked the nation and drawn widespread condemnation from leaders, civil society, and international observers.
“I firstly offer my heartfelt condolences to the family of the woman whose life was so cruelly taken,” Prime Minister Marape said. “This is a heartbreaking and shameful act. In this day and age, there is no justification—cultural, traditional, or emotional—for such violence. It is murder, and it will be treated as such.”
Swift Arrests, United Leadership Response
Thanks to the swift response by local authorities and the Royal Papua New Guinea Constabulary, eight suspects were arrested shortly after the incident. The arrests were made possible through coordination between the Provincial Police Commander (PPC), community leaders, church groups, and provincial leaders.
“I commend Hela Governor Hon. Philip Undialu, Member for Magarima Hon. Manasseh Makiba, the Provincial Police Commander, local councillors, pastors, youths, and ordinary citizens who acted with courage and responsibility. This is how we must respond to evil— together, as a community of peace and law.” The arrests follow rising concern over increasing incidents of sorcery accusation-related violence (SARV), often targeting women and the elderly.
Criminal Law Reform on the Horizon
Prime Minister Marape used the occasion to announce tougher legal reforms aimed at eliminating SARV from Papua New Guinea once and for all.
“In the July and September sessions of Parliament this year—and continuing into 2026—we will amend existing laws to introduce heavier penalties for sorcery-related killings and torture,” he said.
“These changes will expand the scope of liability. Not only will the perpetrators face justice, but also bystanders who watch and say nothing, and those who record and share these horrific acts on social media.”
He confirmed that under the proposed amendments:
• Bystanders and community members who fail to report SARV will be prosecuted as accomplices.
• Social media users who upload or circulate graphic images or videos of these crimes will face criminal charges.
• Village leaders or spiritual figures who incite violence under the guise of ‘glasman’ or ‘witch-hunting’ will be specifically targeted under new provisions.
• Community fines and collective sanctions will be considered where entire villages permit or endorse such acts.
“This will be a law for the protection of women, of elders, and for the soul of our country,” Prime Minister Marape said.
Calling on Men to Step Up
The Prime Minister called on all men across the country to become protectors, not perpetrators.
“You are not a man if you stand by while women are tortured. You are not a man if you blame a grieving mother for your pain and grief,” he said. “True strength lies in protecting the vulnerable—not destroying them.”
He reminded communities that grief or suspicion around sudden deaths should be addressed through proper medical channels.
“If someone you love passes away, do not turn to violence. Go to a hospital. Ask for a post- mortem. Ask the coroner for a proper report. Mob justice is not the answer.”
A National Shame Must End
The Prime Minister acknowledged that PNG has been embarrassed internationally by recurring incidents of SARV, most of which are recorded and circulated online. He said it was time to put an end to this national shame.
“This is not who we are. We are a Christian country. We are a country with laws. This cannot continue,” he said. “We must end this once and for all.”
Appeal for Vigilance and Reporting
He concluded by calling on all citizens to be vigilant and report any suspected cases of SARV immediately.
“I have instructed police across the country to be on high alert. If you hear of something happening in your village, call the police hotline. Go to your nearest station. Do not wait. Do not look the other way.”
“This Government will not rest until the killers are prosecuted, the laws are strengthened, and women can live without fear in their own communities.”