Over the weekend, in the Enga province of Papua New Guinea's remote Highlands region, a tribal dispute resulted in a devastating ambush, leading to the tragic deaths of at least 64 individuals. Authorities reported ongoing armed conflicts between rival tribes, revealing that 64 bodies, brutally killed, were discovered in the highlands of Papua New Guinea.

While the highlands have a longstanding history of violence and have grappled with tribal rivalries for centuries, the recent killings are considered the most severe in years. The incident is believed to be connected to a conflict between the Sikin and Kaekin tribes. Though Highland clans in Papua New Guinea have historically been involved in fierce conflicts, the recent proliferation of automatic weapons has intensified their lethality, contributing to a surge in the cycle of violence.

The incident took place in close proximity to the town of Wabag, situated 600 kilometers (370 miles) northwest of the capital, Port Moresby. The police received deeply unsettling graphic videos and photos depicting the scene, showcasing bodies being loaded onto a truck. Alongside the road, stripped and bloodied bodies were visible, stacked on the back of a flatbed truck.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese stated in a radio interview on Monday that they are offering substantial assistance, especially in the training of police officers and enhancing security in Papua New Guinea.

In July of the previous year, Enga experienced a three-month lockdown due to an intensifying tribal conflict, frequently centered around the distribution of land and wealth. During this period, the police enforced a curfew and implemented travel restrictions. Subsequently, in August, the violence reached a point where it garnered international attention, following the online circulation of graphic footage featuring three deceased individuals.