Papua New Guinea Health Secretary Dr. Osborne Liko has condemned the brutal assault of emergency medical doctor, Dr. Thomas Aiyaka, by police officers at Gerehu Hospital in Port Moresby. The incident occurred in the early hours of Friday morning while Dr. Aiyaka was on duty.
Dr. Liko described the actions of the policemen as "outright criminal" and labeled it as an act of "domestic terrorism" perpetrated by rogue members of the Royal Papua New Guinea Constabulary (RPNGC). He called for immediate action to investigate and hold the responsible officers accountable.
"I have formally requested the Commissioner of Police to investigate this matter with urgency. The public service must complement each other, not work against each other, in serving the people," Dr. Liko stated.
He emphasized the dedication of health workers across the country, who continue to serve the public despite challenging conditions. Dr. Liko urged all doctors and health workers to remain committed to their duties while the investigation takes place.
Dr. Liko also called on the Minister for Internal Security and the Police Commissioner to ensure those responsible for the attack face the full force of the law.
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