Maprik town in East Sepik was set ablaze over two days, beginning Monday between 3pm and 4pm and spilling into early Tuesday morning.
Police have confirmed the arrest of at least 189 suspects.
A special court hearing was, reportedly, scheduled for today as processing of the detainees by police detectives continued into the night yesterday.
Provincial police commander Supt Christopher Tamari described the situation as “quiet but tense”, with the presence of a province-wide police and a 10-member Defence Force personnel.
A mobile squad reinforcement would be flown into Wewak tomorrow to assist police on the ground, Border Commander, Assistant Commissioner of Police Perou N’dranou also revealed Tuesday.
Any injuries could not be ascertain at press time last night.
PPC Tamari said based on footages captured on a closed circuit television (CCTV) camera, two unknown suspects had entered the yard of former politician Peter Simon, on Monday, Aug 5, set fire to four dump trucks and escaped.
“Police were alerted and attended the (crime) scene to commence preliminary investigations.
“On Tuesday, between 5am and 6am, (a mob, allegedly tribesmen of Simon) arrived in town in five truckloads and went on a rampage, starting at Yambo Street, Old Town Maprik,” Tamari said.
“They (allegedly) attacked innocent people and set alight three houses, two 15-seater buses and looted and stole valuables from other houses.”
He said Maprik police were outnumbered, and distress calls for assistance were made out to police personnel from Wewak, Yangoru Dreikikier, and Wosera who quickly responded leading to the arrest of the 189 suspects.
Meanwhile, ACP N’dranou also confirmed that the situation was under control.
“I am in close communication with Supt Tamari and Snr Insp James Baugen to further confirm (details of) the properties destroyed.
“We are yet to establish (what) led to (Monday’s torching of the trucks).
“Information provided by the suspects will help establish the facts surrounding the incident,” ACP N’dranou said.
He also thanked police officers from other districts who responded quickly and were at Maprik to calm the situation.
N’dranou also thanked members of the public who guarded and prevented other properties, especially residents and government offices and facilities, from being destroyed.
“The 189 arrested will be dealt with accordingly,” he said.
Maprik MP Libert Kapris last night called for the restoration of peace and order in the district.
Kapris said the recent incidents have disturbed the peace and stability in the district.
“The burning of vehicles at the residence of the former MP has regrettably escalated tensions, leading to further acts of violence and destruction to several properties.
“These events are of grave concern and threaten the well-being of our entire community,” he said. “My commitment to (peace and order in Maprik) is unwavering,” he said.