Statement by Commissioner of Police David Manning. “I have been briefed by our team at the National Command Centre that has been stood up at Morauta Haus. “At 9:46 yesterday morning, Sunday 11th September, a 7.6 magnitude earthquake struck in the Markham Valley, reported by the US Geological Society to be at a depth of 90 kilometres. “A second 5.0 magnitude earthquake was recorded at 10:42 occurring 70 kilometres north of the original tremor, at a depth of 101 kilometres underground. “The most significant damage reported to date has been in districts of Morobe, Eastern Highlands and Madang provinces. “The tremors caused damage to buildings and public roads in these provinces, and a number of landslides were triggered. “Sadly, seven people have been confirmed dead as a result of these landslides. Three in Kabwum District and three in Wau Town, Morobe Province, and one in Rai Coast, Madang Province. “I offer our condolences to the families of those who have died in these tragic circumst