24 killed in Papua New Guinea tribal massacre

In Karida attack, fighters are said to have hacked and shot six women and eight children – as well as two pregnant women and their unborn children – in a 30-minute rampage.

Port Morseby:At least twenty-four people including two pregnant women with their unborn children were killed in massacre between two tribal outfits in Papua New Guinea's lawless highlands.

According to local officials, the clash which continued for nearly three days broke out in Hela province has prompted the prime minister on Wednesday to promise swift justice.

Highland clans have fought each other in Papua New Guinea for centuries, but an influx of automatic weapons has made clashes more deadly and escalated the cycle of violence.

"Twenty-four people are confirmed dead, killed in three days, but could be more today," Hela provincial administrator William Bando said.

"We are still waiting for today's brief from our officials on the ground and have called for at least 100 police to be deployed to reinforce some 40 local officers," Bando added.

The incident has shocked recently appointed Prime Minister James Marape, whose constituency includes the district where the killings occurred.

"Today is one of the saddest day of my life," Marape said in a statement promising deployment of security in the area.

"Many children and mothers innocently murdered in Munima and Karida villages of my electorate."

In Karida attack, fighters are said to have hacked and shot six women and eight children – as well as two pregnant women and their unborn children – in a 30-minute rampage.