Finschhafen - Safe?

Hi,

I'm heading for PNG in August and was planning to spend a few days at Gagidu in the Finschhafen area, where my uncle was stationed during WWII. Searching through news blogs online, I found references to "rampaging" villagers wielding knives (January 2010) and burning down houses (April 2010), a bank robbery (August 2010), and "fierce gunfighting" (October 2010). That's a busy year for a tiny town.

While I'm as adventurous as the next guy, things like that can really put a damper on a nice holiday. I'd still like to go if I have a reasonable expectation of making it home in one piece, but if it's too dangerous to visit Finschhafen now I'd just as soon cancel this trip and go some other time when things are quieter.

Anyone know what the situation is in Finschhafen these days?

Finsch aint what it used to be that's for sure. Having said that it is pretty safe, certainly not as bad as other places.

The thing is things can flare up unexpectedly. I lived there for about 18 months about 12 years ago and never had a real issue. I still know some people there so PM me if you need a contact on the ground and I'll put you in touch.

Cheers,
Alex

Hi Beachjock, sorry can't get your PM due to LP server probs.

I'm planning a trip back to Fischh next year, my first time back since leaving PNG in 1981. No trouble in the 7 years I lived there then, but unfortunately times do change.
Any feedback in the mean time would be much appreciated.

That should have read Finsch