NOTORIOUS ESCAPEE SHOT DEAD IN KOKOPO
A wanted and notorious criminal who have been involved in a string of arm hold ups and have been evading police custody, was fatally shot down in a police operation in Kokopo.
Police identified his as Judas Waninara, a known fugitive in the province and was reportedly a subject in an ongoing investigation concerning an illegal firearm.
According to police sources, Waninara was located at Vunamami, an encounter ensued, resulting in him being shot. He was transported to Vunapope where he was pronounced dead.
The operation also led to the apprehension of an alleged accomplice. This individual is currently detained and will face initial charges for harboring a fugitive, followed by other related charges.
Meantime, this situation has ignited conversations on public safety and the role of the media in apprehending fugitives.
In the wake of the news, a strong opinion has emerged on social media and community forums, with calls for media outlets in East New Britain, West New Britain, and New Ireland Province to routinely publish the photographs and details of wanted criminals and prison escapees.
“This will help the general public and security authorities identify, report, or capture them,” explained a caller. “They will have nowhere to hide and will make us stop looking over our shoulders at all times.”
Police investigations into the shooting and the broader criminal activities are ongoing.
