MAN SENTENCED TO LIFE IMPRISONMENT FOR MURDERING 12 YEAR STEP-SON

By Vicky Baunke in Goroka, EHP

In Kainantu, Eastern Highlands, a man has been sentenced to life imprisonment for the wilful murder of his 12‑year‑old stepson.

Justice Wawun‑Kuvi handed down the sentence on May 22, describing the killing as a senseless act of violence against an innocent child.

The court heard that Mack Manuas, who had promised to care for his wife’s children, instead grew resentful and brutally assaulted the boy at a coffee plantation in May 2022, causing fatal spinal injuries.

In her victim impact statement, the mother said she entrusted her son to Manuas but never saw him alive again, and continues to live with overwhelming grief.

Justice Wawun‑Kuvi stressed that children are innocent and should never become targets of adult anger. He said stern punishment is necessary to protect vulnerable members of society.

Manuas will serve his life sentence at Bundaira Correctional Institution.