Several unexpected sightings of an unidentified submarine have raised fears among islanders of possible danger.

Islanders from Ali Island have reported seeing a submarine rising and later submerging from several locations of a nearby reef located towards the northern tip of the Island.

There have also been several reports from villagers fishing at night within that particular area claiming to have seen rays of very bright lights beneath the sea surface, usually spreading for several metres.

Coincidentally, these reports are similar to some local whose villages are located towards the outlet of the Otto, Sissano Lagoon.

They claimed to have also had similar sightings before the 1998 Tsunami Disaster had struck.

Executive Officer to the local members’ office for Aitape/ Lumi, Leo Sorap had also confirmed that these reports were already received from personnel based on the island and at the moment they are working together with the locals to gather proper statements of the sightings.

"Officially written statements of the sightings will have to be written by the villagers and these will be sent to Mr. Pruaitch for further attention and action," he said.

Mr. Sorap stated further that people should maintain stability and not panic in such situations.

He added that due to the sudden prospect for petroleum within the area, there may be possibilities of other foreign bodies being interested as well.