Six arrested after Boram Airport raid

Six suspects believed to be part of the gang that raided Boram Airport on Friday night have been arrested and are now being held at the Wewak Police cells.

East Sepik Provincial Police Commander Christopher Tamari confirmed the arrests followed a joint police and military operation carried out in Makun, Malasi and nearby settlements.

The operation targeted suspects linked to the violent incident that forced the indefinite closure of the airport, leaving hundreds of passengers stranded.

Police said the suspects were armed with wire catapults and arrows and attempted to flee towards the Brandi area during the raid.

Superintendent Tamari stressed that the incident was purely criminal and not related to any landowner dispute.

“These were opportunistic criminals who took advantage of a security breach,” he said.

He said the group looted the airport terminal and tarmac, vandalised property, and stole check-in computers and air cargo.

Superintendent Tamari added that the joint operation will continue until all suspects are arrested.

“We will not rest until the main perpetrators are captured,” he said, confirming that several other suspects have already been identified and investigations are ongoing.

Police expect more arrests within the next 24 hours and have assured the public that the situation is under control, with security efforts stepped up to restore normal operations at the airport.