By MIRIAM ZARRIGA

FOUR more men have been killed in Kainantu, Eastern Highlands, taking the death toll in the fighting between two clans to 23.

The fight over a land dispute began between the Tapo and Agarabi clans two weeks ago.

Provincial police commander Supt Michael Welly told The National that the number of those who suffered injuries was yet to be confirmed.

He said the fighting had now moved from near Goroka town to inland Kainantu.

Police mobile squad teams from Lae and Port Moresby are in Kainantu monitoring the fight.

“We have provided a safe haven for the women, girls, children and the old to move around,” he said.

Police teams are talking to the clans to find a solution.

“Our ultimate goal is peace,” he said.

On April 8, the Tapo and Agarabi clans were at the district office to sign a peace agreement on an earlier fight.

But fear and suspicion led to the clans fighting again.

Police Commissioner David Manning and Northern Command ACP Peter Guinness responded to the call for assistance by sending police teams there.

Source: The National PNG