"Protect our city": PM Marape says as 15 die across Papua New Guinea amid rising tensions

At least 15 fatalities have been reported across Papua New Guinea's 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 towns

Police 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 calm

An 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 tensions

Experts 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 world's 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 benchmarks

Businesses shuttered as recovery begins

On 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.