Scam in Papua New GuineaTheft
Armed robbery on the Highlands Highway in Papua New Guinea
How it works
Armed bandits make road travel on the Highlands Highway risky. Travellers may face threats and robbery during a road journey.
Warning signs
- Your planned journey uses the Highlands Highway.
- Local contacts report security problems along your route.
How to avoid it
- Check the local security situation before setting off.
- Discuss the route and transport options with your accommodation.
- Avoid road travel after dark.
If it happens to you
Avoid confrontation with armed attackers. Once safe, seek help and record the location and details without returning to the scene.
- Get to a secure place. Do not chase a thief or confront an armed attacker.
- Ask your accommodation or another trusted person for help. Seek medical care if you are injured.
- Freeze stolen or affected cards and contact the card issuer. Secure any accounts linked to a stolen phone.
- Write down what happened, including the time, location, charges and any vehicle details. Save receipts and screenshots.
- Report the incident to police when safe. Ask for a report or reference number for insurance or bank claims.
- Contact your insurer. If your passport was stolen or you need consular help, contact your embassy or consulate.
Questions
What is the armed robbery on the Highlands Highway scam in Papua New Guinea?
Armed bandits make road travel on the Highlands Highway risky. Travellers may face threats and robbery during a road journey.
How can I spot it early?
Your planned journey uses the Highlands Highway. Local contacts report security problems along your route.
How do I avoid armed robbery on the Highlands Highway in Papua New Guinea?
Check the local security situation before setting off. Discuss the route and transport options with your accommodation. Avoid road travel after dark.
What should I do if it happens to me?
Avoid confrontation with armed attackers. Once safe, seek help and record the location and details without returning to the scene.
Where in Papua New Guinea does this happen?
The Highlands Highway, described on the route linking Goroka with Lae, Kainantu and Mount Hagen. It has been reported in Goroka.
How common is this scam in Papua New Guinea?
Occasional. The main risks in Papua New Guinea are robbery, carjacking and occasional card fraud. Street crime is a particular concern in Port Moresby and Lae, and foreigners are sometimes targeted in Port Moresby. Arrange trusted drivers through your accommodation and get local advice before going out.
Are there similar scams in Papua New Guinea?
Yes: street mugging and robbery, carjacking.
Who can I report it to?
Police: report theft, robbery or fraud when safe. Ask your accommodation for help arranging contact and request a report number. Police conduct and their ability to respond are concerns in Port Moresby. Your hotel or accommodation provider: tell staff what happened. Ask for help reaching a secure place, contacting police or arranging a trusted driver. Card issuer or bank: use the bank's official app or a verified contact number to freeze the card and report unauthorised charges. Travel insurer: contact the claims or assistance service listed in your policy. Keep receipts, incident details and any police report. Embassy or consulate: use its official contact details if your passport is stolen or you need consular assistance.
Reviewed by @snuck