Hela told surrender guns now or face force

The Police Minister is now in Hela Province calling on people to immediately surrender illegal guns, following a public weapons surrender in Enga earlier this week.

Police Minister Sir John Pundari says people must hand in their guns now if they want peace in their communities and a safe future for their children.

He said the national gun amnesty and buy-back program, which started on February 27, 2026, will run for six months; they are now into the second month of the program.

During this time, anyone who surrenders illegal firearms will not be charged and will instead receive cash support to help start small businesses.

Sir John warned that after the amnesty period, there will be a short grace period from August 27 to September 16.

After that, from September 17, police and security forces will begin compulsory operations to take back all remaining illegal guns.

“The widespread presence of illegal guns is causing violence, stopping children from going to school, and breaking down communities,” he said.

He said the problem is serious in Enga, Hela, and Southern Highlands, and called on Hela people to cooperate with police as the program continues.

“The fight against illegal guns cannot be done by police alone. Leaders, churches, and communities must all work together,” Sir John said.

Prime Minister James Marape has also urged people in Hela to surrender their weapons before the deadline.

Authorities say this is a final chance for people to give up their guns peacefully before force is used.