Why Papua New Guinea declared state of emergency: All you need to know

Papua New Guinea's Prime Minister, James Marape, announced a state of emergency on Thursday, following a devastating outbreak of rioting that led to the tragic loss of 16 lives. The chaos unfolded in the Pacific island nation after a police and public sector protest over a pay dispute escalated into violent confrontations. ​The turmoil began with a protest against a pay cut, which officials attributed to an "administrative glitch." This quickly spiraled into lawlessness. Television footage captured thousands on the streets of Port Moresby, the capital, with scenes of looting and smoke-shrouded cityscapes.