Violent Attacks Erupt in Papua New Guinea: Land Dispute Leads to Tragic Loss

Recent violent attacks in Papua New Guinea have resulted in the deaths of 26 people, including 16 children. The conflict, driven by disputes over land and lake ownership, has forced over 200 people to flee their homes, which were set on fire. The death toll is expected to rise as authorities search for missing individuals.

Violent attacks on three remote villages in Papua New Guinea's (PNG) north have likely killed 26 people, including 16 children, while several people were forced to flee after attackers set fire to their homes, the United Nations reported. "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," U.N. Human Rights Chief Volker Turk said in a statement released on Wednesday.

Authorities warn that the death toll could rise to more than 50 as they continue searching for missing people. The incidents occurred in East Sepik province on July 16 and 18, leading to more than 200 displaced residents after homes were torched.

Papua New Guinea, home to hundreds of tribes and languages, has a long history of tribal warfare. In recent years, violence has intensified as villagers began using military rifles instead of traditional bows and arrows. Elections have further exacerbated tribal divides, contributing to incidents such as the May fighting in Enga province, which left eight dead and 30 homes destroyed, and the February ambush that killed at least 26 men in the same region.

(With inputs from agencies.)