Onslow Holdings Inc. (fka IBIE)

[mastaflash]

Alarms raised in Panguna

THERE are foreigners already engaged in alluvial mining in the vicinity of Panguna Mine.
And already it is raising eyebrows not only for villagers and other former combatants but leaders alike.
Sam Akoitai, speaking as former Mining Minister and a leader from Central Bougainville, also a former rebel hardliner has called on the National Government and the Autonomous Bougainville Government to come out clearly and explain to the people of Bougainville and PNG what law these foreigners are using and if they have complied with PNG foreign laws to enter into business — especially in Panguna.
Mr Akoitai raised these serious concerns yesterday as he knows the sensitivity of the Panguna Mine issue, particularly when the situation is still very much tense.
He called on ABG leaders both provincial and national MPs to seriously address this issue of foreigners — especially Americans, Africans, Australians and others — who are engaged in alluvial mining in Panguna when the mining issues have not been addressed in full.
Mr Akoitai also raised the alarm bells for both governments to be extra cautious because the issues at hand — given that more than 20,000 lives were lost due to the Panguna issue — had not been resolved.
“I am calling on the National Government and the Autonomous Bougainville Government to explain whether outsiders or foreigners who are engaged in mining activities have come through the proper channels, through Foreign Affairs, Labour and Employment or have work visas and work permits,” Mr Akoitai said.
“I am specifically cautious because the situation is still very sensitive and all the leaders both in ABG and National Government must take heed and address it head on.
“These people are not only doing business in mining but also scrap metal industry.”