The suspect involved in the attack on foreign tourists in Rabaul, Papua New Guinea, has voluntarily surrendered to police, according to NBC East New Britain.
Rabaul police confirmed that the suspect, identified as Solomon Wafi, was brought in following close coordination with his family. This collaboration reportedly led to Wafi's surrender.
The attack occurred during a visit by a Melbourne family to Rabaul aboard the cruise ship Pacific Encounter. The family of three—a mother, her 13-year-old son, and her 16-year-old daughter—was approached by Wafi, who used a knife to cut off the daughter’s backpack. During the robbery, Wafi reportedly swiped the knife at the teenager, causing a chest wound.
The attack has since raised concerns about safety for tourists in Papua New Guinea, with many questioning the ability of local authorities to ensure security for visitors.The Minister for Tourism, Arts, and Culture, Belden Namah, strongly condemned the attack, warning that continued incidents of this nature could result in cruise lines suspending their scheduled visits to the country.
Public Skepticism Over Justice
Despite the suspect’s surrender, skepticism lingers among the public regarding the outcome of the case. Many have expressed concerns over the judicial process, accusing the police of often arresting suspects only to later release them without proper prosecution.
Critics argue that unless formal charges and an affidavit are filed, Wafi could be unlawfully detained and ultimately released without facing justice. These fears echo sentiments that criminals often return to the streets, undermining community safety and further damaging Rabaul's reputation.
One commentator noted:
“Police need to focus on prosecution as much as they do on arrests. Without proper follow-through, these criminals are free to roam the streets and tarnish Rabaul’s name further.”
The Rabaul Police must now ensure that due legal processes are followed, including registering the case, collecting evidence, and pursuing prosecution. Only through transparent and decisive action can authorities restore public confidence and demonstrate their commitment to safeguarding both local residents and visitors.
