Police in the Capital turned up in full force to stop a potential confrontation and rescue a man kidnapped this morning at Wildlife, Erima. Police Station Commander for the Gordons Precinct, Inspector Gabriel Kini advised told PNG HAUSBUNG that there was a fight that had erupted this morning after a group of men, under the influence of alcohol robbed a woman from the surrounding area. This led to a retaliation by the Woman and her relatives. According to reports from the PSC, this may have been a spill over from a kidnapping incident that had occurred yesterday. “The fight actually started from there yesterday till morning." "At around 2am to 3am a male from Ialibu was kidnapped and brought to the Engans residences and locked inside till morning.” The fight was said to take place today but thanks to the intervention of the men in Blue, the violent confrontation was averted and the man rescued. Officers from 8 sector Patrol Units converged on the scene to control the situation. At the moment, PSC Kini is addressing both sides to ascertain facts surrounding the incident and hopes to get both sides to come to a consensus and let the law take its course. “Now talking with community leaders how best to sort it out 2 victim believed to have sustained injuries are in the hospital.”

The Mariners have emerged victorious after running down a 125 run margin set by the Cassowaries in the Isuzu Smash T20 Grand Final. It was the Mariners who won the toss and elected to field in the first innings, confident they would get the job done. Lega Siaka and Samson Tarapia, both openers for the Cassowaries, started out impressively with Siaka dominating the bowlers early. This, however, came to a halt when Tarapia was dismissed for 6 runs after a John Kariko special saw the bails flying for the first wicket of the match. Things would head south from then on out for the cassowaries, Lega Siaka scored his way to a half century of 33 balls, but was caught out by Michael Charlie to give Gaudi Toka his only wicket for the match. Nelson Pate was next to go in the 10th over for only 2 runs. The cassowaries looked to be in all sort as Barnabas Maha was dismissed in the 11th over for 3 runs bringing them to 70/4. Thankfully, the contributions of Hiri Hiri and Hila Vare managed to get them over the 100 run mark ending the innings with 125/10. The Mariners wasted no time at the crease, Malcom Aporo and Gaudi Toka starting out strong before Toka was dismissed by Aue Oru. Aporo followed suit in the 6th over. However, Barras captain Assadollah Vala formed a good partnership with Baeau Gabutu, but was felled in the 13th over by Warren Hobart. This, however, did not deter the Mariners. Gabutu playing gracefully, scoring 39 runs before he was dismissed 17th over. The Mariners went on to win the Grand Final by 4 wickets and Gabutu named player of the Match.

The Minister for Internal Security, Peter Tsiamalili Jnr has opened up about the National Identity (NID) Program, stating that this is a great need for the country, in order to maintain visibility and to encourage proper planning for development aspirations of the country. The minister stated that this is a key element that governments need in order for it to plan and gather a strategy. He stated that without proper knowledge of how many citizens in the country, without visibility the country will be unable to address the various issues that are being faced right now. “Unless and until we have visibility of every citizen as a country then we can be able to do what is right for our country and our people. The aspirations of us as a country must be integrated into us having visibility of our citizens and this is where the National Identity Program is critical for each of the provinces to take ownership of.” This is why they have allowed MoU’s to be signed with District and Provincial Administrations to work in collaboration with the Ministry to ensure that they deliver the project to everyone in the country. “It is key information to have for planning and for us managing our aspirations and strategic plans. We cannot forever go with our feelings, can no longer go with our support base to bring development, we are going to get away from that and focus purely on our people.” He stated that without numbers, proposed plans are merely speculative and in most cases can be the cause of mismanagement if plans are not based proper information. He stated that the Medium Term Development Plan (MTDP) IV that was launched recently, is a very good plan that aligns and helps all stakeholders to work with each other, but added that this will work if there is full visibility of citizens.

The University of Papua New Guinea Interim Council have advised that they have devised a 5 strategy approach to be taken to ascertain facts surrounding the allegations of recent media publications on breaches of conduct and policies by staff, students and others. UPNG Chancellor and Interim Council Chair, Robert Igara, in a statement released today stated that following wide spread publicity over allegations of grades for cash at the University of Papua New Guinea, consultations were conducted between Vice Chancellor, Prof. Frank Griffin and Acting Secretary for the Department of Higher Education, science, Research and Technology, Father Jan Czuba which led to meeting that convened during the week to seek out ways to address these issues. "As an interim Council, we have been proactive in seeking positive outcomes to every challenge brought before us." "As the Minister for Higher Education Research, Science, Technically and Sports Don Polye stated, the allegations go towards the heart of the University's core mission and to the integrity of the University's academic awards, it's management and governance." Chancellor Igara added that a brief has already been provided to the Minister on the strategy and specific actions they will be taking. He further stated the council acknowledged the specific accusations and their own assessment based on work done by the interim Council and task force set up to point to significant weakness in the systems. The five strategies and actions are; 1. Council oversight on management responsibility and action to restore control and integrity to current academic grading system and practices. 2. Immediate Investigation into possible misconduct of staff, students and others. 3. PNG Telikom assistance and ICT management support. 4. Implementation of ICT improvement and Reform. 5. Working with University Community Engagement and DHERST.

Good news for police recruits, the Deputy Commissioner Joanne Clarkson has advised that training for regulars will be commencing soon following the final reference check for all applicants and completion of recruitment in Vanimo. The Madam Commissioner confirmed that the recruitment agency that was contracted to assist in conducting the recruitment have already cleared and conducted reference checks on all applicants. Madam Clarkson told PNG HAUSBUNG that the confirmed number for regular recruits that will be undergoing training that will commence next month is 453, whilst for officer cadets, there are 32 confirmed with another 58 that will be going through the final interview process with the list to be finalized next week. “There will be two lots of interviews conducted, one in Mt. Hagen led by Deputy Commissioner – Regional Operations Dr. [Phillip] Mitna and I’ll be here in NCD.” The Deputy Commissioner stated that in two weeks time, the final numbers for the Police Cadet Recruitment will be finalized, with training for cadets to start in September. DCP Clarkson stated that due to the lack of bed space at the Bomana College of Excellence, training will be conducted in two batches for regulars. “226 will go first, so we’ll roll in our first group and they will go through the first 6 months.” Training for regulars is due to commence in the first week of next month.

Internal Security Minister and Bougainville Regional Member, Peter Tsiamalili Jnr has expressed delight over the launch of the Medium Term Development Plan IV and the support shown by the members of parliament in attendance. On the launch itself, the minister told PNG HAUSBUNG that he was impressed with the amount of work put in to celebrate the launch and give the prestige it deserved. He said it was good to see the majority of the open members also participate to take ownership of the MTDP IV. “At the end of the day, its going to take team effort and will take all the leaders in the provinces to work together in alignment and this a great platform for all of us to work in sync and in collaboration whilst trying to achieve their individual district plans.” He added that only through working together the country will be able to achieve it’s goals and development aspirations. "The launch was very authentic in the sense that it embraces the aspiration of PANGU Pati in terms of unlocking the resources that the country has focusing really on economic independence and ensuring that everyone is on the same platform of working in alignment and collaboration."

In a show of great flamboyance, the long awaited and anticipated wait for the Medium Term Development Plan IV [2023-2027] was officially launched by the Prime Minister James Marape on Friday night, alongside the Minister for Finance and Planning Rainbo Paita at a fully packed APEC House in Port Moresby. The Launch was witnessed by many invited guests, dignitaries, members of Parliament and other stakeholders. Acting Secretary for Finance & Planning, Koney Samuel welcomed everyone in attendance, making note of their support in the launching of the MTDP IV, stating that this was a very special occasion as the country was witnessing the launching of the development plan for the next 5 years. “This occasion reminds us of the challenges ahead and a need for collective resolve to build this nation together." "This is the overarching development plan for our country fully endorsed by the Marape-Rosso Government and for Papua New Guineans to take full ownership and commit to deliver successfully.” The Acting secretary said to achieve the country’s Vision 2050, he called for the collective effort of all citizens, adding that the MTDP IV provides adequate framework and a launching pad for addressing the country’s development priorities. “We are at the most critical juncture in our country’s history where we seriously need to rethink the way we do business for the last 47 years.” Referencing the previous report from the MTDP III, Samuel highlighted that our major development indicators are obviously low in terms of the human development index. "The Country is ranked 156 out of 191 countries, according to the UN Human Development Report 20-21 and we hope that by 2050, the country can be able to reach the top 50." “I see the urgency of our time to work harder than ever." "We must not falter along the way." "Papua New Guineans need better, particularly those in the remotest and rural areas of our country.” He added that the plan now launched captures the aspirations of all Papua New Guineans, stating that the department undertook a comprehensive consultation with provincial and district administrations, the government stakeholder, private sector and others to solicit views and ideas as to how they can go about in planning for the country’s development. “Our consensus and development priorities are fully captured in this plan, as well as the means as to how we will grow the economy, create jobs and increase revenue."

When Dan Russell trots onto the surface of WIN Stadium  tonight for his NRL debut, over a decade of hard work, dedication, and sacrifice will come to fruition and a lifelong dream will be realised. Hailing from Emerald in Queensland’s Central Highlands region, Russell was rewarded with a spot in the Broncos’ 2015 NYC squad alongside current Dragons teammates Jaydn Su’A and Michael Molo and made his Queensland Cup debut for Souths Logan that same year. He would spend four seasons with Souths Logan before making the move north to the Mackay Cutters for a pair of seasons and then back to the Brisbane Tigers for another two. In 2019, he earnt his first international call-up for Papua New Guinea partnering Justin Olam in the centres and has gone on to make seven appearances for the Kumuls including all four of their World Cup showings last year. He linked up with the Dragons for 2023 and has made 16 Knock On Effect NSW Cup starts under head coach Bronx Goodwin. Across his state career, Russell has started in every position bar halfback, which is a true testament to his versatility and team-first attitude. Dragons interim coach Ryan Carr described Russell as a symbol of “everything that [the Dragons] are trying to be about”. “It’s just a great reward for persistence and hard work for Dan Russell to get his debut at 27,” Carr said. “It just sort of symbolises everything that we are trying to be about here at the moment, which is just putting the team first and competing hard and being committed and never quitting. "Multiple times, he could have quit all the way throughout his career, and he hasn’t. He’s kept at it and I’m super happy for him and proud for him and I’m excited to see him play.” Russell admits that an NRL call-up was not on his mind when he made his way into the team room on Tuesday morning. “I actually had no idea; it was a massive shock,” Russell said. “I was just in the team meeting and [Carr] was naming the team and, yeah, number 17 and my name popped up… There was a big roar from the back. I was sitting at the front, and they all got around me. It was a great experience and a great moment of my life. I’ll never forget it.” He rushed to phone his parents as soon as the announcement was made in a pair of calls that were full of “plenty of emotion”. “I’m 27 and they’ve taken me everywhere as a kid and it’s been a long journey and even my partner, Bev, they’ve done a lot for me, so it was great. It's something that I’ll never forget,” he said. “I’ll have to sort those tickets out to fit them all in... It’s a great honour and I can't wait to put that jersey on.” Russell’s journey to an NRL debut is unique and, through the years toiling away in state competitions, he admits that there were lows but remained confident in his chances to make the leap up to the NRL. “There was always a couple of doubts, especially through injuries at crucial times,” he recalled. “The way I am and the person my parents brought me up to be, I knew I’d hang in there and I knew I could do it… It just goes to show you’ve just got to hang in there, train well, and just believe, which I did.” Russell looks back on his World Cup experience with the Kumuls as a major influence in helping him reach an NRL debut. “To play in a World Cup gave me huge belief and experience for this opportunity and we had a great side,” he said. “Just the belief from playing in that and now to get an opportunity at the Dragons, it’s been a great few months and I can’t wait to get out there.” Source: dragons.com.au

Police Commissioner David Manning has renewed calls for the introduction of a vagrancy act following the recent spate of violence in the National Capital District and other parts of the country. The call from Mr Manning comes after a total of 56 persons were arrested by NCD police for their alleged involvement in Monday's riot at Koki, in the National Capital District. The 56 suspects were arrested on Tuesday and detained at the Badili Police Station cells. Mr Manning said there is an alarming increase in violent crimes and especially ethnic-based violence within the National Capital District. “This is very concerning, and whilst the causes for the increase in these violent crimes are varied and many, I am sure everyone wants to put an immediate end to this. “Given the situation, the best option now is to bring in the vagrancy act." "This can temporarily address the violence that is spiraling out of control especially within our urban areas until more permanent solutions are identified and activated." “We have a constant stream of people coming into the city who have no money, no jobs and nowhere to stay." "They come here to look for a better life or to escape violence back in their own villages." "However, it is not different here in the city." "The tough economic times are forcing people into all kinds of activities, both legal and illegal as well." “For the immediate term we must stop the movement of people into the cities." "The vagrancy act will allow that and give the government time and space to find permanent solutions to our socio-economic challenges,” Mr Manning said. The Commissioner said that the Royal Papua New Guinea Constabulary will explore the option to introduce a vagrancy act further in consultation with the Minister for Internal Affairs, Hon. Peter Tsiamalili Junior. Mr Manning said whilst he acknowledges that such an act could be seen as draconian and may deny the constitutional rights of individuals, it is necessary for the greater or common good. “Traditional PNG was more geared towards communal harmony." "Individual responsibilities were dictated for the communal well-being." "We have adopted foreign ways in which entire communities are held at ransom for the benefit of individuals." "With what is happening around the country, perhaps it’s time to look inward to come up with a way to balance collective communal well-being with individual constitutional rights,” Mr Manning said. Mr Manning said this is suggested as a temporary measure only and going forward, drastic measures must be taken to improve the socio-economic outlook for the country in both the rural and urban settings. “What we are experiencing now is because a large number of our people do not have access to shelter, food, water, clothes, and medicine or health care." "We must improve our education and health sectors, build our infrastructures and create more employment and business opportunities for our people." "Only then can we expect to drastically reduce our law and order issues,” Mr Manning concluded.

A big win for the people of Raicoast in Madang, as the Governor General, H.E Bob Dadae official swore in Member for Raicoast and Vice Minister for International Trade and Investments as the Minister for Labour & Employment. This portfolio was formerly that of Madang Mp, Bryan Kramer. Prime Minister James Marape, who was present to witness the swearing in stated that this is not only a win for Raicoast and Madang, but for women across the nation. “This is the first time a Member from Raicoast will be sworn in as a minister in the National Cabinet.” “Congratulations to the people of Raicoast.” PM Marape added that it was not an easy decision, stating that while he had known of Ms Sawang’s background working in the public space, but conducted wider consultation with key stakeholders. He said Ms Sawang was appointed on merit based on her qualifications and background in working in the public space. “She was right for appointment. Having seen how she had worked in the last couple of months in the Vice-Minister Portfolio. She delivered at a higher standard.” Marape took the time to appreciate and recognize her contribution to the nation. Sawang becomes the third female in PNG history to be appointed a ministerial portfolio.

Papua New Guinea Defence Force confirms that two of its members were killed early Tuesday morning. This incident occurred around 4.00AM this morning at Kupiano in Central Province during the final field exercise for the Corporal Qualifying Course conducted at Goldie River Training Depot. Two others are injured and including a civilian and have since been evacuated to the Port Moresby General Hospital. The families have been informed and details of the service personnel will be released once all internal protocol requirements for members killed in action are done. An investigation team from the Royal Papua New Guinea constabulary has been dispatched to the site with the Military Police. Also, a high level PNGDF investigation team has been tasked to immediately deploy to conduct an internal investigation. PNGDF is ensuring that it continues to provide the duty of care to the families those deceased and wounded members during this time. Defence Minister Win Baki Dakri said as Minister responsible he conveys his sincere condolences to the families and loved ones of the deceased members. “I also give my assurances to those who were wounded that their recovery will have our priority of support.”

The Ministry of Treasury has released a statement saying that businesses have identified foreign exchange shortages as the greatest barrier in doing business in PNG. Treasurer Ian Ling-Stuckey stated that a bigger problem that law-and-order issues, power shortages or lack of a skilled workforce. Ling-Stuckey stated that this is why the Government wants to return to full Kina convertibility so that our currency has full standing in the international community. He added that it is embarrassing that the Kina is facing barriers all around the world, whether in trade and travel overseas. “This is why we are continuing discussions with PNG businesses as well as international organisations on the best way forward for PNG.” “Prior to 2014, the Kina could be freely traded. Bad decisions were made by PNC as it tried to deal with its mishandling of the PNG LNG project and the fall in oil prices.” Ling-Stuckey stated that these had led to disastrous consequences for the budget. “Deep debt and deficit holes created adding that bad decisions on the value of the Kina started the inevitable pattern of foreign exchange shortages the country is experiencing today.” “The Marape-Rosso government is working to fix this mess.” “It has already increased by 300 per cent the release of foreign exchange into the market, from USD30 million per month to USD100 million per month.” The Treasurer said this is only possible because of the country’s shift to securing good, cheap, concessional financing and has asked the IMF and others for advice on how we can best return to full Kina convertibility, as well as increased flexibility in our currency. He added that the Government is going through consultations internally and externally to try and sort out what is best for PNG.