Port Moresby eviction operations: Unrest risks high and deteriorating

It began with evictions at the Rabiagini settlement on 25 January, resulting in two deaths and multiple injuries. Additional evictions took place at the 4-Mile Works Compound days later. 

NCD authorities have escalated efforts with ‘Operation Street Eviction’ from 1 April, targeting informal vendors, unregistered vehicles and roadside businesses. Preliminary market clearance operations began on 20 March, increasing public agitation and triggering clashes. They  have since announced additional eviction operations planned for the Hohola, Gordon, 8-Mile, 9-Mile, Bush Wara, Wildlife and Erima settlements.

Prime Minister James Marape urged the authorities on 1 April to slow eviction operations and adopt a “humanitarian perspective,” noting that the national government was not adequately informed of the NCD-led actions. His comments reflect broader public unease and political friction surrounding the evictions. 

Why is this happening?

Nearly half of Port Moresby’s 500,000 residents live in informal settlements; many without legal tenure or access to basic services. High youth unemployment rates and limited economic opportunities have contributed to elevated crime levels and made these areas flashpoints for unrest. 

Papua New Guinea has a recent history of rapid escalation. In January 2024, a police strike over salary deductions triggered 14 days of rioting, looting and violence across multiple locations, resulting in at least 16 deaths. While current eviction operations are unlikely to prompt unrest on that scale, the underlying drivers; economic strain, policing gaps, and political distrust, remain present and are intensifying.

How might the situation develop?

Localised unrest is highly likely through at least May 2026

Eviction operations are expected to continue across April and May, including at the Erima and Wildlife settlements. Displaced residents will likely resettle in other informal areas, increasing the risk of communal and ethnic tensions, particularly in neighbourhoods such as Gerehu where locals have already voiced opposition to relocation plans. Suspension of key PMV (public motor vehicle) routes during street‑clearing efforts has already left hundreds stranded, compounding frustrations and raising the likelihood of clashes between operators and passengers. Informal settlements, markets and roadside vendor areas will likely become flashpoints for unrest. 

Advice

Organisations with assets in Port Moresby:

• Review internal escalation triggers and crisis management plans in light of the heightened unrest risks. Identify asset proximity to proposed eviction sites and account for potential security risks or operational disruptions on nearby roads.
• Review or establish internal shelter-in-place resources and protocols for static assets ahead of any potential major unrest. Ensure resources are adequate for up to 48-72 hours. This should include contingency power reserves, and adequate drinking water and food supplies for personnel.
• Cross-check if frequently used overland routes are subject to disruption from unrest overspill.
• Review or establish communication cascade plans for essential information delivery.
• Liaise with the local authorities or private security providers for site-specific advice and mitigation measures.
• Contact the Healix GSOC for organisational specific risk assessment and physical security offerings.

Travellers visiting Port Moresby:

• Download and monitor the Healix Travel Oracle app for Port Moresby specific alerts and advice.
• Pre-arrange dedicated ground support for all short-term operations in Papua New Guinea. Minimum security recommendations include the use of a security-trained driver, unarmed close protection officer and a 4x4/SUV vehicle.
• Liaise with security managers prior to travel to undertake a security risk briefing and assessment to become familiar with specific local risk factors.
• Monitor local news and social media when in the country and liaise with local partners to stay abreast of the social and political environment.
• Be alert and aware that gatherings often occur spontaneously and deteriorate at short notice. If you encounter a crowd of protesters, it is best to vacate the area immediately and return to secure office buildings or accommodation until the situation is contained.
• Bypass the vicinity of informal settlements in Port Moresby to mitigate against the risk of eviction-related unrest.