A police mobile squad operating at a project site near Tari in Southern Highlands province recently confiscated the "military-issue gun" from a group of four men during a road block, according to The National.

"Looks like the election is just around the corner and weapons smuggling is becoming a daily operation," Sargent Dominic Orosota reportedly told the newspaper.

"Weapons are coming into the project site for the election."

Police have reportedly confiscated more than 12 home-made guns in the past month.