BLACK Cat Track communities between Wau and Salamaua in Morobe have apologised to the families of the two porters killed and those injured last Tuesday.
They sent their apologies to the families through Iwal-Kaiwa clan chairman Mewa Buimai.
Buimai said the communities were truely sorry for the action of a few who attacked the local porters’ and trekkers from Australia and New Zealand.
“We deeply sympathise with their families, especially those of the two deceased and six injured porters admitted at hospital,” he said.
“We also apologise to the governments of Papua New Guinea, Australia, New Zealand, the foreign communities and our people for the unfortunate incident.”
The Iwal-Kaiwa communities live along the track in the Bitoi villages of Skin Diwai, Wapali, Mubo and Godogasu.
Buimai visited those injured at the hospital yesterday and handed over cash raised by the Iwal-Kaiwa community.
“This inhuman and barbaric act truly tarnished the name of Iwal-Kaiwa tribe and harmed the tourism potential of the Black Cat Track,” he said.
“This has shocked everyone because Iwal-Kaiwa people are simple and humble.
“We are unable to understand the motives behind these evil persons to commit such crimes.”
Bumai said the communities would assist police in the investigations to arrest those still on the run.
“The criminals need to face the law if found guilty,” he said.
Bumai also urged Black Cat Track Association chairman Ninga Yawa not to hide behind Wau Adventures and PNG Trekking Ltd.
“Ninga need to say what he will do for the deceased and casualties because the BCTA secretary Dick Reuben is among the casualties,” he said.
“And this includes Wau Adventures, PNG Trekking Ltd and Tourism Promotion Authority as well.”
The National