Police in East Sepik are continuing investigations into the weekend incident that led to the temporary closure of Wewak Airport with authorities now pursuing at least 23 suspects believed to be involved.

East Sepik Provincial Police Commander Christopher Tamari confirmed that investigations are progressing with officers gathering statements and identifying key suspects connected to the disturbance.

Superintendent Tamari said one of the main persons of interest has already provided a confession to police, which helped investigators identify others believed to have been involved.

“The investigation is ongoing. We are getting all the statements together, and one of the prime persons of interest has given a confessional statement revealing the names of others who were present during the incident,” Tamari said.

Police have since begun working with communities to track down and apprehend those implicated in the attack.

“As we speak, officers are out working with communities to apprehend about 23 prime suspects,” he said.

The police commander said the incident was allegedly carried out in retaliation after police shot a suspected gang leader during a previous operation.

According to Tamari, the destruction of public infrastructure such as the airport is unacceptable and those responsible, will face the full force of the law.

“Public infrastructure is for everybody. Whoever thinks they are fit enough to destroy what belongs to the public will face the full blunt of the law,” he said.

Tamari urged residents of Wewak and surrounding communities to help police with information that could assist investigations. He said most community members support law enforcement efforts, while only a small minority are responsible for criminal activities.

The police commander also highlighted broader concerns about crime in the province, including hold-ups along the highway near Wewak and ongoing tensions between rival settlement groups.

He attributed much of the rising crime to youth unemployment and lack of opportunities urging young people to seek productive livelihoods rather than resort to criminal activities.

“Crime does not pay. People should take up opportunities available to them, work the land, and engage in small businesses instead of resorting to crime,” Tamari said.

Despite challenges such as limited manpower and a growing population, Tamari said police remain committed to managing crime in the province.

He called on the public to work together with law enforcement to ensure the safety of the provincial capital and surrounding communities.

“Help us ensure we have a better and safer province” he said.