The Seventh-day Adventist Church in Papua New Guinea has condemned the recent killing of church members in Pialya, Enga province.
Church president Pastor Kepsie Elodo said it was not right for people to kill others intentionally, adding tribal wars in the Highlands region and other parts of the country must end.
“I condemn the killing of a deacon and two other people by opposing tribes and also extend my condolences on behalf of the Church to their grieving families,” Pastor Elodo said.
“Such killings are uncalled for. Human lives must be respected because they are God’s creation.”
According to a report from Western Highlands Mission communication director Pastor Solomon Paul, a group of church members and evangelists were heading to Komaga to preach the Word of God when they were ambushed by an enemy tribe on March 2.
A deacon was killed along with two others who were preparing for baptism, Pastor Paul said. A further two people were shot and taken to hospital for treatment.
“Tribal fights must stop as they are contributing to the loss of innocent lives and property,” Pastor Elodo said. “Let us seek the help of God and those who can negotiate peace for our communities.”
