Five people arrested in relation to the burning incident of houses in East Makira

Kirakira police have arrested five suspects for the alleged burning incident of thirteen houses at Naharahau village in Wainoni, East Makira, over the weekend.

Those five suspects have been placed in police custody for further dealings. The other four suspects are identified but still at large for arrests.

The situation currently is calm and under control while police continue with their investigation into the burning incident.

The burning incident happened on 13 September 2026, where a group of people allegedly burnt down dwelling houses and kitchens and destroyed food gardens.

Police appeal to those four suspects to surrender themselves and appeal to community leaders to work with the police for the surrender of those suspects.

Provincial Police Commander (PPC) Makira-Ulawa Province, Superintendent Gordon Horomae said police have based their arrest on evidence collected. The number could increase depending on the investigation.

It was alleged that the burning incident may have been carried out in retaliation for the death of a relative of the arson group.

The group believes it was caused by a person alleged to have sorcery from Naharahau village.

Police are urging both parties to refrain from engaging in illegal activity and to cooperate with police so that the case can be fully examined.