Papua New Guinea's Hela Provincial Police Commander, Martin Lakari says Exxon Mobil has shut down its operations today (June 19), after landowners burnt heavy machinery in the early hours of this morning.Lakari told EMTV News that this is a “landowner related issue.”
The action is understood to be related to frustrations in a payment delay of a K35 million security fund by Exxon Mobil to landowners. The landowners are from Angore PDL 8 and Hides PDL 1 to 7
Mr. Lakari said sections of road leading to the Hides Gas are blocked limiting police access.
ExxonMobil has responded in a statement saying they are continuing to monitor ongoing tension in the Highlands.
“We are investigating reports of vandalism relating to the Angore pipeline construction project. Host government security forces are in the area and also investigating. Our staff are all safe.
“Production at the Hides Gas Conditioning Plant is continuing normally. ExxonMobil PNG is committed to maintaining a positive relationship with landowners, the government and the wider community.”
EMTV | PMW