Gunman charged

A MAN allegedly involved in the shooting incident at the Port Moresby International Airport last Friday has been charged by police with discharging a firearm, and will also face multiple attempted murder charges, The National reports.

Former chairman of Moran Special Purpose Authority David Mulungu has been charged in connection with the possession and use of a firearm in the incident.

Police said his younger brother Paul, nicknamed Rambo, who is recovering in hospital, would also face a similar charge when he is released from hospital.

Police were also considering malicious damages charges for damages inflicted on properties during the shooting incident.

They also faced other charges under the Civil Aviation Act.

Police denied reports by the other daily newspaper that the wounded gunman had escaped from hospital.

A third person, believed to be the son of the former chairman, was released as he was a juvenile accompanying the two.

David Mulungu, who is in police custody, is expected to appear before the Boroko District Court today charged with discharging a firearm.

Police also confirmed that a wounded bystander, who was admitted at the Pacific International Hospital, had been discharged but was expected to continue with his medical review.

Police also said the firearms used were licenced.

Doctors will examine the injuries sustained by Paul Mulungu in his leg and determine whether to carry out an operation or not.

Komo-Margarima MP Francis Potape, who was at the airport when the shooting happened, said a number of individuals who provoked and incited this attack should also be arrested by police.

He said these people had been associated with the Homa Paua People’s Association and had been making provocative public statements.

He said since oil was first discovered there 15 years ago, millions of kina had been squandered by individuals, some of whom freely expressed threats in the media, and they should be arrested.