Recent attacks on three villages in East Sepik province, Papua New Guinea, resulted in at least 26 deaths – including 16 children – an event that has left UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Türk “horrified”, he said in a statement on Wednesday.
The attacks, which took place on 16 and 18 July reportedly occurred because of a land, lake ownership and user rights dispute.
These attacks reportedly stem from conflicts resulting from tribal violence in the southwest Pacific nation in February where about 26 people were also killed.
The UN human rights office (OHCHR) had urged the government at that time to address the issue and ensure the protection of civilians – particularly women and girls.
The High Commissioner said the number of those killed in the attacks in East Sepik province could rise to 50 as local authorities continue to look for missing people.
Further, over 200 villagers left the province as their homes were being torched.
“I urge the authorities to conduct prompt, impartial and transparent investigations and to ensure those responsible are held to account,” Türk said.
“It is also vital that victims and their families receive reparations, including adequate housing, effective protection against further attacks and necessary psychosocial support.” The High Commissioner also calls on authorities to address the main causes of land and lake disputes in the affected communities to “prevent recurrence of further violence.”