health
Papua New Guinea warns against fishing in New Ireland after mystery deaths of marine life
Initial testing found evidence of metals in water samples, months after province’s residents began reporting unusual numbers of dead fish washing ashore
TL;DR
- Papua New Guinea's government has issued warnings against fishing in New Ireland due to detected metals in water samples.
- Residents reported unusual numbers of dead marine life, including fish with swollen eyes and damaged skin, starting in December 2025.
- Initial testing by an independent company detected various metals in water samples around Kafkaf village and Larairu lagoon.
- The affected communities, most notably Kafkaf and Mangai, rely heavily on the ocean for food and income.
- Residents have reported health problems, and the seawater has been described as having a strong sulphur-like smell and appearing cloudy or discoloured.
- Provincial authorities declared Kafkaf an environmental hazard and contaminated zone in January.
- Investigations by national agencies, independent scientists, and international laboratories are continuing to determine the extent of contamination.
- Affected communities are facing food shortages and economic hardship, with fishing activities suspended.
- Ailan Awareness documented over 3,400 dead marine organisms across at least 15 species in March.
- The government faces criticism for a slow response and lack of immediate assistance for affected villages.