Christian missionary injured in suspected machete attack in Papua New Guinea

A Tongan missionary serving for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints was reportedly injured in a suspected machete attack in Papua New Guinea, according to accounts circulating on social media, though the Church have not yet released details about the incident.

Video shared online and reviewed by Moroni Channel appears to show a young man wearing a white shirt stained with what looks like blood. In the footage, the man walks while holding one hand tightly wrapped in black cloth, apparently covering an injury.

The video and photographs were posted on Facebook by Maʻata Monu Halafihi, who identified the missionary as her relative, Elder Lautaha, a missionary from Tonga. Halafihi said he had been attacked with a machete while serving in Papua New Guinea.

According to Halafihi’s account, Lautaha and his missionary companion were able to escape the attacker and seek refuge at a local church belonging to The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, where they were reportedly able to reach safety.

Halafihi also posted messages of encouragement online, expressing hopes for a swift recovery for Lautaha and his companion.

Authorities and church officials have not yet publicly confirmed the details of the incident, and it remains unclear what led to the attack, the extent of Lautaha’s injuries, or whether other missionaries in the area were affected.

The situation remains developing, and additional information is expected as officials provide further updates.