Melbourne man shot dead, girlfriend raped by mob in PNG - Herald Sun

An Australian man has been killed and his girlfriend gang raped by a mob in Papua New Guinea's Western Highlands.

The 62-year-old man, believed to be from Melbourne, died instantly after being shot at point blank range on Monday morning when a group of up to 10 men confronted them at a coffee plantation on the outskirts of Mt Hagen.

The man's girlfriend, understood to be from the Philippines, was taken to Mt Hagen hospital for treatment.

"The motive of the killing of this innocent Australian is not known at this moment as well as the identity of the killers," Highlands Divisional commander Teddy Tei said.

Mr Tei said no valuables were taken from the scene and police cannot rule out whether the owner of the house, who is away in Sydney, was the target.

"I condemn the actions of these animals," Mr Tei said.

"This is inhumane.

"We are investigating this very serious incident which is likely to have severe ramifications on the country's image."

Further Comment is being sought from PNG police, while a spokesperson from the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade said consular officials in Canberra are providing assistance to the man's family in Australia.