The Prime Minister James Marape urges for order and restoration amongst the unrest along the Highway of Eastern Highland Province. The Prime Minister made this announcement in a statement today 28th February 2025, following the retaliation over killings of two policemen in southern Highlands Province. Prime Minister Marape conveyed hi heartfelt sympathies to the families of the slain officers and assured them that the police investigation is ongoing. He urged the Minister for Police and the Commissioner of Police to provide an update and ensure prompt arrests. Prime Minister Marape has appealed to the families and tribes of the two slain officers to allow due process to take place and not resort to unlawful actions. He also emphasised the critical importance of the Highlands Highway as the country’s economic lifeline and called for its immediate reopening. Furthermore, Prime Minister Marape urged the families and tribes of the slain officers to let due process take place and avoid unlawful actions. He highlighted the importance of the Highlands Highway for the country's economy and called for its immediate reopening. “I am deeply saddened by the tragic loss of our two police officers and extend my heartfelt condolences to their families.” “However, I urge everyone to allow the police to carry out their duties and to ensure that justice is served through proper legal channels.” “Blocking roads and causing further disruptions will only harm innocent people who depend on the Highlands Highway for their livelihoods,” said Prime Minister Marape. Eastern Highlands Governor Simon Sia has received the deceased family’s petition for the National and Southern Highlands Provincial Governments and assured them it will be delivered to the relevant authorities. He confirmed that the roadblock has been removed, and police will continue to monitor the situation, with additional deployed Mobile Squads from Mt Hagen and Kerowaghi to ensure public safety. Prime Minister Marape warned opportunists against taking advantage of the situation, stating that any unlawful actions will be dealt with in accordance with the law. “I call on all law-abiding citizens of Eastern Highlands to assist in restoring order and to allow the police to handle this case.” “The Rule of Law must prevail, and justice must be sought in a peaceful and lawful manner.”