Seventy students from different schools in Port Moresby have been convicted by the Boroko District Court for inciting unsanctioned school fights in the city.

The students were convicted on Friday by Boroko District Court Magistrate Sandy Tiankin and each ordered to pay a K200 fine. Their bail money was converted to cover the fines.

The court also ordered the students to serve a six-month good behaviour period, during which they must not commit any further offences.

National Capital District Metropolitan Superintendent Warrick Simatab welcomed the court’s decision, saying it sends a strong message to students involved in school-related violence.

He urged students to focus on their education rather than becoming involved in groups that engage in fights with students from other schools.

Met Supt Simatab said parents, guardians, and sponsors make important sacrifices to support students’ education and urged young people not to allow peer pressure, rivalry or social influence to ruin their future.

“Choose discipline. Choose respect. Choose education over violence. Your future is worth far more than one fight.”

He said a further 20 students classified as adults are expected to appear before the Boroko District Court in relation to the fights.

Met Supt Simatab warned that police would continue arresting students involved in inciting fights, saying the latest case could serve as a precedent for dealing with groups involved in school violence.

Police will also work with school management teams to address students involved in such behaviour, including possible disciplinary action by schools.

He also called on parents and guardians to take greater responsibility for disciplining their children at home and strengthening positive behaviour before they go to school.