A PNG Defence Force (PNGDF) soldier has confessed to firing live ammunitions that allegedly killed leading seaman Eric Gwale and Corporal Watata Kutegen in Kupiano.
PNGDF Commander, Mark Goina said a month-long investigation by PNGDF identified three suspects.
“There were three main suspects identified, one has owned up to firing the live ammunitions because he had the live ammunition on him during the activity,” said Goina.
The investigations also revealed that the deceased members were hit by high velocity ammunitions fired within 40 meters.
“Results of the post-mortems are consisted with the manner and how they sustained those fatal injuries resulting in instant death. Basically, those late members were being hit with high velocity round or bullets fired in close range less that 40 metres during the activity,” said Goina.
Late members Gwale and Kutegen were part of 43 participants in the final exercise for the Corporal Qualifying Course. They were killed on 4th July 2023.
“The tragic incident occurred during the assault phase of the attack; the deceased members were found dead during the reorganization phase which is after the assault was completed” said Goina.
The investigations showed that military processes were not followed right from the start and did not establish the allegation that some soldiers were drunk at the time of the incident.
“The personnel entrusted to perform their duties and responsibilities in relation to the conduct and control of Corporal Qualifying Course to some extent have failed to do their job or responsibilities effectively,” said Goina.
The three soldiers identified will be prosecuted both through the Military Code of Disciple and the Civil Criminal Court. Others have been suspended since 31st of July pending the outcome of the investigations.
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