The journalist sustained injuries but should fully recover

Location: Papua New Guinea, Port Moresby
Date: August 2, 2023

Two media workers were shot while attending a media tour of power stations outside Port Moresby, Papua New Guinea’s capital. A cameraman escaped unscathed, while journalist Gwendella Rea was hit in the right forearm. The identity or motive of the assailants is unknown at this time. The Coalition For Women In Journalism calls for an urgent investigation into the incident, which has raised concerns about the safety of journalists in the country.

A media tour of power stations near Port Moresby turned violent when two unknown individuals shot at the National Broadcasting Corporation’s (NBC) journalists. The cameraman narrowly avoided being hit, but Gwendella Rea, a journalist, sustained a gunshot wound to her right forearm.

After the incident, Rea was promptly taken to Paradise Private Hospital in Port Moresby by personnel from PNG Power LTD, the government-owned energy company. The company vowed to bear the expenses for her medical care. Rea suffered a fracture in her left arm and is presently hospitalized for further examination and monitoring.

In light of the shooting incident, the Media Council of Papua New Guinea (MCPNG) has issued a statement urging for increased respect and safeguarding of journalists. They are advocating for the implementation of improved safety protocols during media tours to prevent similar incidents from happening again in the future. The MCPNG emphasizes the importance of protecting journalists and ensuring their well-being while carrying out their professional duties.

Assistant Commissioner of Police, Anthony Wagambie Jnr, has verified that the police are actively investigating the incident. MCPNG and NBC are collaborating with the police to assist in their inquiries. The motive behind the attack is still unknown, but preliminary reports indicate that the media workers were unintentionally caught in the crossfire between unidentified assailants.

The Coalition For Women In Journalism expresses solidarity with the two journalists affected by the incident and emphasizes the need for a comprehensive investigation. We strongly advocate for holding the perpetrator accountable for their actions. Recognizing the vital role journalists play in upholding a free and independent press, we underscore the importance of prioritizing the safety and security of journalists in Papua New Guinea and urge the implementation of measures to ensure their protection and well-being.

The Coalition For Women In Journalism is a global organization of support for women journalists. The CFWIJ pioneered mentorship for mid-career women journalists across several countries around the world and is the first organization to focus on the status of free press for women journalists. We thoroughly document cases of any form of abuse against women in any part of the globe. Our system of individuals and organizations brings together the experience and mentorship necessary to help female career journalists navigate the industry. Our goal is to help develop a strong mechanism where women journalists can work safely and thrive.

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