On 19 September 2022, authorities implemented security lockdown measures in the town of Goroka in Eastern Highlands province following several incidents of communal violence in neighboring towns. According to local media reports, a group of armed individuals entered Goroka in the early hours of 19 September and attacked people in the nearby Nagamiufa village in retaliation for the 17 September killing of a Papua New Guinea Ports chief executive officer. At least three villagers were injured in the attack. Local residents fled surrounding villages as dozens of businesses shut down amid fears of increasing violence. Operations at Goroka Airport (AYGA/GKA) were also disrupted as dozens of international travelers were reportedly unable to leave the facility due to the lockdown. Local authorities have not yet announced when the heightened security measures are scheduled to conclude.