At least 15 fatalities have been reported across Papua New Guineas two major cities Port Moresby and Lae amidst raging riots and chaos sparked by a payroll glitch that slashed government wages, the national police chief confirmed Thursday.Looting, arson grip townsPolice Commissioner David Manning announced 8 died in the capital Port Moresby during violent protests Wednesday night, while 7 perished in Lae as both industrial hubs plunged into mayhem with widespread plundering and arson leaving security forces overwhelmed.PM appeals for calmAn urgent appeal for calm was issued by a rattled Prime Minister James Marape even as businesses shuttered across tense urban areas. He insisted the salary processing error was being rectified while calling for citizens to stand down from the destructive civil unrest that has shocked the island nation.“I want to appeal to citizens to protect our city. The police and public servant grievances are being addressed,” Prime Minister Marape said in a statement. Inequality, poverty fan tensionsExperts highlight that despite vast mineral wealth, PNG has long grappled with inequality, poverty and inadequate policing that leaves simmering societal tensions at risk of exploding. With the worlds lowest police density of only one officer per 1,800 citizens the country is saddled by limited state capacity to keep frustrated populations under control amidst breakdowns. PNG falls short of minimum UN benchmarksBusinesses shuttered as recovery beginsOn Thursday, Port Moresby remained on edge with shops, banks and gas stations shuttered. Officials stated that tax breaks may be offered to riot-hit enterprises. The city governor dubbed it a “dark day” while imploring citizens to cease destructive behaviour and self-harm.“We are inflicting harm upon ourselves, he said. Investigations into the payroll debacle and policy solutions are underway at emergency cabinet meetings.
