11 Apr 2005

Bougainville deputy governor alleges subversive actions by Australians

8:16 pm on 11 April 2005

The deputy governor of the Papua New Guinea island of Bougainville, Gerard Sinato, says Australian nationals are trying to destroy the peace process by creating political instability with Francis Ona and his so-called Mekamui Government.

In remarks carried by the National newspaper, Mr Sinato says there are signs of some Australian nationals being involved in influencing Mr Ona in spreading false prophecy to the people of Bougainville.

Mr Sinato alleges that Australian nationals are continuously sneaking into Bougainville with ulterior motives.

And he says although the Australian Federal police on the island are aware of the situation they have done nothing.

Last year, an aircraft owned by an Australian company was impound by Civil Aviation Authorities for landing at the decommissioned Aropa Airport.

Mr Sinato says he is disappointed that the Australian Government has been tight-lipped about the incident and the current events, where Australian men travel in and out Mr Ona's No-Go-Zone area.