Students and university property at the University of Goroka were attacked by locals, leaving several students injured. Photo: Facebook / Wepio Media Agency
Papua New Guinea's Police Commissioner David Manning has condemned the "selfish and stupid behaviour" of students and villagers following an outbreak of violence.
Almost 1000 students have been evacuated from the University of Goroka campus.
Tears streamed down the faces of evacuees as the provincial government team and police loaded them into buses.
The National reported Manning saying a fight broke out between students attending the university and locals from a neighbouring village on Saturday night.
"The Goroka General Hospital confirmed that 40 students were admitted with injuries, and a number of vehicles and houses were damaged.
"Three policemen were injured by intoxicated individuals throwing stones."
Manning called on the University of Goroka and student bodies to examine the behaviour of students.
"This sort of alcohol-fuelled behaviour is unacceptable," he said.
"Students and surrounding communities have suffered as the result of alcohol-fuelled stupidity."
Manning has stood down two senior police officers over the "unacceptable" police response.
He has also confirmed the deployment of police manpower to restore order in Goroka.
The Autonomous Bougainville Government's education ministry said it is working to ensure the safety and well-being of Bougainvillean students at the University of Goroka.
"A committee has been established in the ABG Department of Education to coordinate all ABG response, efforts and assistance towards the situation with our students at the University of Goroka," the ministry said.
"The student leaders have assured us that our Bougainvillean students are safe.
"The UOG student leaders are in the process of putting together data and the list of Bougainville students at the UOG to ensure every Bougainville student is accounted for, assisted and moved to a safe location."
The university's vice chancellor said the academic senate has approved a two-week break for students before sitting their final semester exams online and in person.
