Unrest in Papua New Guinea: Eight Dead as Rioting Erupts in Port Moresby

Port Moresby, the capital of Papua New Guinea, witnessed major rioting and unrest as hundreds of people took to the streets amid a police strike over a pay dispute. The unrest resulted in mass looting of supermarkets, arson attacks on cars and shops, and clashes. At least eight people have died during the disturbances.

The government deployed the army to restore order. The unrest started after police personnel and public servants protested outside Parliament upon discovering their salaries were reduced by up to 50% due to a computer glitch. Prime Minister James Marape clarified that misinformation had spread about tax increases, and the rioters exploited the absence of police on the streets.