At least 64 individuals have tragically lost their lives in a devastating ambush in Papua New Guinea's remote Highlands region. The incident occurred during a tribal dispute in the Enga province over the weekend, according to a national police spokesman speaking to the BBC.

The Highlands area has long grappled with violence, but this attack is believed to be one of the worst in recent memory. The influx of illegal firearms has intensified clashes, making them more lethal and perpetuating a cycle of violence.

Police were tasked with retrieving the bodies at the scene near the town of Wabag, approximately 600km (373 miles) northwest of the capital, Port Moresby. Acting Superintendent George Kakas of the Royal Papua New Guinea Constabulary expressed shock at the scale of the violence, describing it as unprecedented in Enga and possibly the entire Highlands region.

Graphic videos and photos from the scene, depicting bodies loaded onto a truck, have circulated online, further highlighting the grim nature of the situation.

Tribal conflict, often centered around disputes over land and wealth distribution, has been escalating in the region. Last July, Enga province experienced a three-month lockdown due to rising tensions, with police enforcing curfews and travel restrictions.

In August last year, international attention was drawn to the violence after graphic footage featuring three deceased individuals surfaced online.

Security concerns persist throughout Papua New Guinea, prompting the government to declare a state of emergency last month following widespread rioting and looting that claimed at least 15 lives.

Australia, a close ally of Papua New Guinea, expressed deep concern over the killings and reiterated its commitment to supporting security efforts in the country through training programs and other forms of assistance.