A total of five (5) murder suspects have surrendered to police in East Sepik after peace talks in their communities.

The talks were held at Hambuge villages 3 and 4. They followed killings and arson attacks on April 10 and 13. Police said the suspects were taken into custody and flown to Wewak for lock-up.

More suspects are expected to surrender. Another group linked to the arson will give themselves up on Monday. East Sepik Provincial Police Commander Christopher Tamari said the surrenders are a step forward.

“These suspects have come forward after the peace process. We encourage others involved to do the same and face the law,” he said.

One suspect, known as Brungie, was on the run for some time. He was listed as a most wanted criminal in Wewak. Police say he was involved in several serious crimes.

These include an armed robbery near the airport earlier this year. He was also linked to a break-in at Jade Island last month.

He is further accused of robberies in Kreer Heights, Freeway, KDM and Masandanai.

Police say he had links to criminal groups in Kaindi and nearby areas. He was arrested on April 25th after police received information from the public.

Commander Tamari said police will continue their work.

“We will not stop. Anyone involved must surrender or they will be arrested,” he said. The violence left homes burned and people dead.

Police are now calling on communities to support efforts to restore peace and report crime.