The Papua New Guinea Defence Force has released details of the incident that claimed the lives of two PNGDF members, thirty-six hours after the initial incident happened on Monday 4th July at 4:45am.
However, details as to what went wrong during the training exercise have been withheld to allow the process of investigation to take its course.
PNGDF Commander, Major General, Mark Goina said it’s a regrettable incident that should have never happened.
Goina identified the deceased members as;
- Leading Seaman, Eric Gwale of Morobe and New Ireland, employed at HMPNGS Tarangau at Manus and;
- Corporal, Watata Kutegen from Enga, employed as an instructor at Goldie River Training Depot.
“At the outset, I want to convey my deepest condolences and those of all the men and women of the Papua New Guinea Defense Force to the loved ones and families of the deceased,” Commander Goina said.
The PNGDF hierarchy said the families of these servicemen will be supported during this difficult time.
PNGDF has launched a 14-day preliminary investigation into the circumstances of the incident.
A fortnight, a wait too long for two grieving families, in need of answers.
Meanwhile, a third soldier and a civilian who were also wounded during the Dawn Attack Exercise are being treated at a private hospital.