A series of deadly shootouts between rival tribes over a disputed gold mine in Papua New Guinea has resulted in at least 30 casualties. The violence escalated near the Porgera gold mine in the central highlands of the country, stemming from a land dispute between the Sakar and Piande clans. Security forces have been granted emergency powers, including the use of lethal force, to quell the unrest.
The conflict, fueled by illegal miners and settlers, has caused widespread destruction, with buildings set on fire, schools closed, and government offices shut down. The Canadian-owned mine, once a significant source of export earnings for Papua New Guinea, has faced disruptions in operations due to the violence.
Tribal conflicts are not uncommon in the region, but the influx of automatic weapons has intensified the recent bouts of violence. Efforts to restore peace have been made, with security teams deployed along the highway leading to the mine and Pope Francis urging for an end to the cycle of violence during a recent visit to the country.
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