Western Highlands Provincial Police Commander (PPC) John Sagom is calling on law abiding citizens in Mt. Hagen to assist police in reducing crime in the city. PPC Sagom made this announcement following Tuesday's incident in Mt Hagen City, where two female Post Courier staff members nearly fell victims to a knife wielding robber. The incident prompted the PPC to give assurance to citizens and visitors in Mt Hagen City. "Our efforts to conduct high visibility police presence will not be hindered as reported. We will continue to give confidence to our citizens in the city and the province. What has happened to the Post Courier reporters was a freak incident and was very unfortunate. I condemned the actions of this perpetrator," PPC Sagom said. He added that the arm of the law was strong, and "a selfish, lazy person who roams the city streets with very unclean spirit with no purpose in life" thinks he will succeed but will reap what he sows. "Such persons are opportunists, and they don't have a place in our society. They deserved to be treated harshly by the law." "I am appealing to our good Western Highlanders or any law-abiding citizens to assist police in the city to do 'citizen's arrest' under the Arrest Act whenever they see a person who is 'about to commit a crime' or 'is committing a crime' or 'has committed a crime,'" he said. He added that Police may not be everywhere at any one time, but they are doing all they can to ensure everyone is safe.

Journalists from the mainstream media houses in the Highlands Region, on Friday 13th June concluded a three-day training on social media and website usage, facilitated by BBC Media Action and Media Council of Papua New Guinea (MCPNG). The program hosted at Highlander Hotel in Mt Hagen City, Western Highlands Province, was to enlighten reporters about the evolving social media content creation trend and to be equipped with skills in producing digital news content for their media houses' social media platforms. This is to provide accurate, unbiased and real time information on their media agencies social media platforms. On ground to deliver training were President of Media Council of Papua New Guinea Neville Choi, Digital Editor of Post Courier Matthew Vari, PNG HAUSBUNG News Director and Treasurer of MCPNG Ms. Genesis Ketan and Reilly Kanamon PNG Project Coordinator BBC Media Action. The training was on how best to deliver quality, timely and factual news content for public consumption through social media and internet, in order to address challenges traditional news mediums like radio and TV in reaching out to wider audiences. Meanwhile, on behalf of the trainees, Mal Taime of Post Courier Mt Hagen thanked the trainers for their insights, stating that the participants have learnt a lot and would apply what they have learnt at their respective news agencies. Certificate of Participation was awarded to the twelve trainees.

A whooping K410,000 was raised over the weekend at the Western Highlands Governor's Charity Ball 2025 held at Sir Mara Haus in Mt Hagen City. The Charity Ball event was an initiative of Governor Wai Rapa to raise funds for Mt. Hagen General Hospital. "The charity event will go towards purchasing of all medical equipment needed by the Mt Hagen General Hospital," said Governor Rapa. Most of the money raised will go towards restoring the Vibrant Dental Clinic, whereby all new equipment will be purchased to ensure the smooth run of the dental clinic which has being serving the people of Western Highlands Province and the Upper Highlands Region. The Head of Dental Department Dr Thomas Tatua as well as Provincial Health Authority (PHA) Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Jane Holden, were happy recipients of the charity funds. The event was attended by business houses, partners and esteem individuals who travelled into the city as far as Port Moresby, Lae, East New Britain and even from Australia. Governor Rapa was overwhelmed by the support received at the Charity event and thanked all who supported the event through cash and kind.

Three Rugby League Competition in Southern Highlands Province (SHP), Erave Rugby League Competition, Aiya Rugby League Competition and Kagua Rugby League Competition are now seeking financial assistance for these competitions. Founder of Erave Rugby League, Emmanuel Eralia expressed this concern on behalf of Kagua and Aiya Leagues as well. The call for support was made to the Kagua Erave District Development Authority (DDA), highlighting that these are competitions based within the district and need funding to further their competition. Eralia stated that the Leagues are all affiliated to Papua New Guinea Rugby Football League (PNGRFL) through strong dedication and support from individuals, but there were no sponsors and a regular flow of funding. “The competitions were running from generous individuals' support to execute programs despite it being costly.” While commending the recent funding of K500,000 to provincial Rugby League team PRK Mendi Muruks by Southern Highlands Provincial Government, Eralia appeals to the local MP for Kagua Erave Maino Pano and the DDA to support Erave, Aiya and Kagua Rugby Leagues with funding. “These three rugby league competitions are feeder to the Provincial Team and deserve at least a bit of funding from the Provincial Government.” He added that sports also carry the same importance as Law and Order, Health or Education. “Rugby League helps in minimizing law and order issues, generate cash flow in the communities, unites the people and also provides an alternative pathway to live a better life.” Three Rugby League Competition in Southern Highlands Province (SHP), Erave Rugby League Competition, Aiya Rugby League Competition and Kagua Rugby League Competition are now seeking financial assistance for these competitions. Founder of Erave Rugby League, Emmanuel Eralia expressed this concern on behalf of Kagua and Aiya Leagues as well. The call for support was made to the Kagua Erave District Development Authority (DDA), highlighting that these are competitions based within the district and need funding to further their competition. Eralia stated that the Leagues are all affiliated to Papua New Guinea Rugby Football League (PNGRFL) through strong dedication and support from individuals, but there were no sponsors and a regular flow of funding. “The competitions were running from generous individuals' support to execute programs despite it being costly.” While commending the recent funding of K500,000 to provincial Rugby League team PRK Mendi Muruks by Southern Highlands Provincial Government, Eralia appeals to the local MP for Kagua Erave Maino Pano and the DDA to support Erave, Aiya and Kagua Rugby Leagues with funding. “These three rugby league competitions are feeder to the Provincial Team and deserve at least a bit of funding from the Provincial Government.” He added that sports also carry the same importance as Law and Order, Health or Education. “Rugby League helps in minimizing law and order issues, generate cash flow in the communities, unites the people and also provides an alternative pathway to live a better life.”

Up to five PMV buses belonging to operators from Enga and Southern Highlands Provinces have been damaged as a roadblock is being staged along the highland’s highway at Keltiga, Western Highlands Province today. This is understood to be done by relatives of the victims of the recent road accident there, involving a Southern Highlands Provincial Education Division vehicle and a PMV bus from Togoba. Today, vehicles travelling to and from Southern Highlands Province were forced to turn back while some unfortunate drivers had their vehicles damaged and passengers traumatized. Western Highlands Provincial Police Commander John Sagom has been contacted of the situation, and he is expected to advise after police intervention. Currently, the public travelling to and from Southern Highlands Province are reminded to remain where they are until further notice from the police. This is a developing story, we will bring you more updates on this.

The recent signing of agreement between Southern Highlands Provincial Government and airline company Kobio Aviation Limited (KAL), to expand its operations into Mendi, will see additional air services provided in the province. Kobio Aviation Limited being quite new to alot of people in Southern Highlands Province has received criticisms and questions. PNG HAUSBUNG reached out to CEO of KAL, Kevin Hyllestad who gave a brief background of the company. Hyllestad said KAL currently operates two De Havilland DHC-6 Twin Otter aircraft, specializing in remote area logistics. "Our aircraft are uniquely suited for short, unpaved airstrips, making them ideal for serving communities with limited or no road access." "We are actively expanding our operations to introduce additional aircraft, including larger regional aircraft, to complement our Twin Otter fleet and provide greater connectivity across Papua New Guinea." Hyllestad also gave his view on safe and reliable airstrips are critical for aviation operations. "While KAL is not responsible for airstrip maintenance, we will work closely with relevant authorities, including the Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA) and the Southern Highlands Provincial Government, to advocate for necessary repairs and improvements. Well-maintained airstrips will enable us to deliver essential services such as passenger transport, medical evacuations, and agricultural freight, supporting rural development," Hyllestad highlighted. It was also clarified that KAL was committed to providing cost-effective air transport solutions while maintaining the highest standards of safety and reliability. "As a charter operator, our pricing is based on aircraft availability, operating costs, and flight duration." "However, we strive to offer competitive rates, especially for community-focused operations, and we work with local organizations to facilitate cost-sharing options where possible." In terms of aviation safety, Hyllestad said safety was their top priority. "KAL operates under strict regulatory compliance with CASA PNG, ensuring that all aircraft undergo regular maintenance and that our pilots and crew adhere to the highest safety standards." "Our Twin Otters are well-maintained and flown by experienced pilots trained for the challenging terrain of PNG." "Additionally, we are working on developing ground support training programs to enhance aviation safety in rural communities." Meanwhile, one of the questions that has bothered alot of people was insurance. Hyllestad clarified that KAL was fully insured in accordance with aviation regulations. "This includes coverage for our aircraft, crew, and passengers, ensuring compliance with industry and regulatory requirements." "Our insurance coverage aligns with international aviation standards, providing peace of mind to our clients and passengers." It is understood that Kobio Aviation Limited specializes in rural and remote charter services, focusing on areas that lack road access or have inconsistent transportation options. KAL provides cargo and passenger flights supporting local businesses, government agencies, and humanitarian missions. "KAL plays a crucial role in airlifting agricultural products from remote villages to market hubs, facilitating economic growth for rural communities." "Additionally, we conduct medical evacuation flights (Medevac), mining and resource industry support, and emergency response services as part of our broader commitment to serving Papua New Guinea." "We are excited about the opportunities in the Southern Highlands and look forward to working with local stakeholders to enhance air transport services."

A nasty vehicle accident happened yesterday morning at Keltiga, Western Highlands Province, resulting in the loss of lives and injuries. The incident saw a land cruiser belonging to Education Division in Southern Highlands Province bumping into a PMV bus from Togoba. The casualties were transported to Mt Hagen General Hospital. Following the nasty vehicle accident yesterday morning at Keltiga, Western Highlands Province, two people have been confirmed dead, and eleven others have been injured. According to Western Highlands Provincial Health Authority CEO Jane Holden, one young boy was pronounced dead on arrival and one female died at Mt Hagen General Hospital despite massive resuscitation effort due to multiple fractures including her spine. Three others are in seriously condition with lower lung fractures, four are under surgical review and four others with lacerations were being treated and likely to be discharged. Meanwhile, Western Highlands Provincial Police Commander John Sagom says traffic police were at the accident scene to establish the cause. The accident involved a land cruiser from the Southern Highlands Provincial Education Division and a PMV bus from Togoba.

A man from Hela Province has been convicted by the District Court in Mt Hagen to serve 10 years in prison if he does not have K30, 000 to pay fines for smuggling marijuana via Kagamuga Airport. The defendant, Gini Pini from Tigibi, Hulia LLG in Hela Province was found guilty and convicted by Mt Hagen District Court Magistrate Kimberly Berem on Wednesday. The defendant had testified that he did bribe the security guards at Kagamuga Airport to move the drugs out to coastal provinces. Kagamuga Airport police did the arrest upon tip off by National Airport Corporation (NAC) Aviation Security. According to Western Highlands Provincial Police Commander John Sagom, the drugs weighed 10 kilograms and had an estimated street value of K100,000 (One hundred thousand kina). He thanked the NAC Security for alerting police. "I urge the NAC Security to work closely with my officers in this kind of partnership so that together we can build a good network in detecting the shipment of drugs (cannabis), arms and ammunition etc., from illegally entering and to curb shipment of dangerous drugs or weapons in and out of Western Highlands and the Highlands region using air services." He said they needed to build strong capabilities and partner in ensuring air transport services are monitored for the safety of every person. Meanwhile in another related drug case, a man caught with 82 marijuana packs at Mt Hagen main market has been sentenced to three years imprisonment at Baisu jail. The defendant Bomai Paulus is from Kumbagl village in Kerowagi District, Simbu Province. The two men were punished under the laws dealing with drugs, namely Dangerous Drug Act and Controlled Substance Act. PPC Sagom has applauded the Court's decisions on sentencing the offenders. "I wish to warn citizens not to engage in dangerous drugs (cannabis) business as you may be thinking of making fast money." "People who are involved in this dirty business are also responsible for causing health problems for the users and also contributing to the rise of crimes in the community." "You may think you are smarter than the law and the law is ineffective but you will be in trouble when the long arms of the law catches up with you." "You will have alot of regrets and it will be just too late," PPC Sagom warned.

With the current reports by local and overseas media regarding a tribal fight situation at Akom, Enga Province on Sunday, Enga Provincial Police Commander George Kakas has clarified that police reports had 26 bodies retrieved and not more than 50 as initially reported. This was after he first revealed earlier today that there were more than 50 bodies and later had the figure reconfirmed as lower. PPC Kakas says searches for more bodies was going on but 26 have been retrieved in partnership with PNGDF security personnel. Meanwhile, attempts are being made to obtain responses from the Enga Governor and Provincial Administrator today.

53 Men have been confirmed to have been killed on Sunday morning in an ambush by enemy tribes in Wabag, Enga Province according to local Police. Enga Provincial Police Commander George Kakas, confirms that the 53 Men killed were from the Sikin/Kaekin tribes who had gone to stage an attack on the Ambulin/Itokon tribes but were taken off guard, ambushed and killed. This clarifies the recent photos going viral on social media showing dead bodies piled up on a Police truck. It is understood that more bodies are expected to be retrieved today by neighbouring tribes assisted by PNGDF counterparts. The incident yesterday happened at Akom/7mile. The warring tribes are from Wapenamanda where fights have been going on for the last two years. It is understood that Kandep MP Don Polye and Provincial Police Commander George Kakas have witnessed the ceasefire agreement at around September last year, however some disagreements in a case in Port Moresby saw one party trying to attack the other and got ambushed instead. Meanwhile, the highway from Mt Hagen to Wabag is clear, although situation is tense at the moment.

All shops in the heart of Mt Hagen City, Western Highlands Province, have closed doors today in fear of opportunists taking advantage of yesterday's chaos in Port Moresby. PNG HAUSBUNG witnessed mobs moving around in groups this morning, keeping eyes out for opportunities to pounce at any shop that gets opened for business today. However, police have been seen patrolling the city streets to ward off any attacks and disturbances in town. Women, children and vulnerable members of the community are urged to stay at home. Meanwhile, calls have been made on the youths and opportunists that the buildings in the city belonged to locals from Western Highlands and the Asians and other businesses houses were only renting them. It's understood that the shops provided employment for alot of innocent people, hence the general public at large do not want any destruction of properties. However, police and military personnel remain on high alert today as not to leave opportunities for looters.

Police in Mt Hagen, Western Highlands Province have prepared for Prime Minister (PM) James Marape's visit today. Plans for the security arrangements were discussed with all divisional heads of the police force in Mt Hagen, following the end of the year parade at Kimninga Police Barracks yesterday. Provincial Police Commander (PPC) John Sagom who is back in the province after being in Solomon Islands for the last two months as commander of the PNG security contingent for the Pacific Games, said the appropriate security measures have been taken into consideration for the PM's visit. It is understood that Prime Minister James Marape who visited Jiwaka Province today will be in Mt Hagen tomorrow for the official launching of the sealing of Mt Hagen City roads by China Harbour Engineering. Police in Mt Hagen, Western Highlands Province today held their end of the year parade at the Kimininga Police Barracks. PPC Sagom thanked all the members of the police force for their work this year. Amongst a few announcements made today, liquor ban for Western Highlands and Mt Hagen City starts tomorrow (Friday) December 22nd and will end on January 5th, 2024. Meanwhile, Inspector Moses Kalandi, who was acting Provincial Police Commander during Sagom's absence for the last two months has been appointed Rural Police Commander Western Highlands Province. PPC Sagom also announced that next year on, there will be physical training programs for all the police men and women so that they are kept fit and healthy, given the fact that they have lost some of their colleagues due to lifestyle diseases and effects of lack of exercise.