A total of 56 persons, allegedly involved in Monday's riot at Koki, in the National Capital District, were arrested and detained today following a massive police operation across the Koki suburb. NCD Metropolitan Superintendent Silva Sika personally took charge of this operation to identify and arrest the suspects responsible for Monday's carnage. Koki was rocked by violence on Monday when opportunists rioted, looted shops and smashed the windows of vehicles of commuters traveling along Healy Road. The extent of the damage, loss, and injuries sustained by victims, both locals and foreigners, are yet to be determined at this point in time. The violence erupted following the killing of a man. A massive crowd swarmed the main Koki round-a-bout and began attacking the shops and pelted passing vehicles with rocks and robbed the occupants who were caught up in the chaos. Mr Sika said all commercial activities in this part of the city will remain shut for an indefinite period until the suspects involved in the rampage are identified, arrested and charged by police. Police combed through the area today and arrested 56 suspects. Mr Sika said the suspects were locked up and depending on the investigations, may be charged for the riot. Mr Sika said police will work closely with the community leaders in their effort to locate and arrest more suspects involved in Monday’s incident. Mr Sika said, the local community who depend on cash income from the betelnut, vegetable and fish markets are also equally responsible and therefore they must assist the police in identifying and apprehending the culprits involved in Monday's violence.

The National Capital District Rugby Union, Nou Asigau recently announced the dissolution of the competition, informing the PNG Rugby Football Union [PNGRU] President Paul Siwi of their immediate dissolution through a letter earlier this month following the association’s inability to comply with requirements set by the Body. In the letter, Asigau advised that as of the 30th of May last month, the NCDRU under the PNGRU will no longer continue to run as a competition. “The past three years has found clubs within the Association struggle both financially and with player numbers.” Asigau said when the nominations to participate in the 2023 season was announced, only two clubs responded. To which he added that this clearly did not satisfy the requirements as an Association for a minimum four (4) clubs under the PNGRU Constitution Clause 10.2.1. “The non-payment of annual subscription (Clause 10.3.5) by NCDRU for membership in PNGRU also leaves us to conclude that the Association does not have the financial capacity nor the playing population to conduct a competition.” Mr. Asigau added that the dissolution of NCDRU is perhaps a blessing in disguise allowing the game to be unified in the capital city and there should be no desire by PNGRU to introduce another association to destabilize the competition but instead satisfy the purpose of its institution as PNGRU to strengthen the code and the Provincial Union in the capital city. C RU President Kori Chan when advised of the dissolution said CRU is willing to immediately welcome players for the remainder of its season affected by this decision. “Clubs from CRU can accept these players for the remainder of the 2023 season,” Chan said. “Those NCDRU clubs wishing to join CRU will however wait until the end of the 2023 season to apply for admission as per the CRU process and procedures.” He said with more clubs joining CRU, consideration of an expanded program that it has developed in anticipation of an eventual merger and uniformed competition which is based on a tiered competition structure will be actioned.

ICAC new Commissioner Andrew Forbes has expressed that the top priority for the organization at the moment would be for the setting up of the office and building relations with key partners. He said this following the swearing in of the Inaugural Independent Commission Against Corruption Commissioners this morning by the Governor General, Bob Dadae at the Government House in Port Moresby. He said that ensuring relevant policies are set up in the workplace and establish working relationships with various government departments are pivotal to the running of the organization, especially during the initial stages. “One of the first thing that we must do is just a very basic set up within the office, help ensure policies in place and things like that.” “The other high priority is that we do have to work alongside the Police, DPP and meeting with those agencies are critical.” In terms of staffing, Commissioner Forbes said it will be a little time before they start working upon investigations and so on as they are still working with a little number of personnel so building staff numbers is something that they will be looking at to ensure they have the capability to commence investigations. “The first ambition is to have about 85 staff within the office, it’s going to be dependent on how well we go with funding and so on.” “In a perfect world we would have twice as many but it’s a bit hard to be definitive.” Forbes stated that they will be looking to achieve this by the end of this year. “As the country may well be aware, funding has always been an issue for government organizations particularly for those in law enforcement and we can only hope that the Government can make sure to adequately fund the ICAC if they are serious about clamping down on corruption.”

The Independent Commission against Corruption (ICAC) today witnessed handover from outgoing Interim Chair, Thomas Eluh and the inception of ICACs newly appointed Commissioner, Andrew Forbes and his assistants; Deputy Commissioner - Operations and Technical Services Daniel Baulch and Deputy Commisioner -Prevention and Corporate Administration Graham Gill, who will lead the organization here on out. The swearing in ceremony commenced at the government house at 10am this morning. Outgoing chair Eluh stated that the swearing in of the Commissioners today is a milestone achievement for PNG in it's fight against corruption. “Their coming has been very much anticipated.” “I’m sure everyone in the anti-corruption space in the country would be equally excited and pleased.” He stated that ICAC was established in cooperation with other to prevent, reducing and combatting corruption and conduct by public officers in ensuring Government services reach the people. He added that the fight against corruption has been a long time coming. Commissioner Andrew Forbes in his first speech as Commissioner stated that they are truly honoured to be appointed as inaugural commissioners of the ICAC. He further thanked the government and the people of PNG for introducing the ICAC in legislation. “We congratulate both side of parliament, voting in unanimously the legislation,” said Commissioner Forbes.” Commissioner Forbes thanked Eluh for his contribution and leadership in leading the interim office to where it is now and pledged to continue to build on to establish and operationalize the organization.

Police in the Nation's Capital have detained a man alleged to have murdered a street vendor in the early hours of Monday morning. Badili Police Station Commander, Inspector Jerry Obert said the events that occurred were a backlash from members of the public particularly those from the settlements in the vicinity of Koki. Vehicles were attacked by ruffians as they commuted through Koki, some losing windscreens while others were stopped and robbed. The PSC stated that as soon as they received the alert, officers were sent to quell the situation which was thought to be a retaliation by family members of the deceased and others. Luckily on ground, NCD Metropolitan Superintendent, Silva Sika was also present to dissuade the crowd from acting up, warning that should they continue, they would face the full extent of the law. “The Met Supt. came down, he warned the opportunists and also the family of the deceased, we have talked to them." "We also talked to the owner of the security firm, who pledged that he would take responsibility of the death." Obert stated that around 2am that morning, the male street vendor under the influence of alcohol engaged in an altercation with security guards around the K-Mart area, the latter resorting to violence, leading to his demise. “The Gate at the Koki K-Mart is manned by the SGU security service, which is owned by a Wanigela man." "At that time he was arguing for something with the Security Guard." "The deceased, under the influence of alcohol had a quarrel and decided to jump the fence into the premises.” This led to a scuffle with a few other guards joining in, and killing the street vendor. Police are still unsure of the facts leading up to the death of the vendor but it has been reported that it may be linked to theft. The security guard alleged to have killed the vendor tried to escape but was apprehended by police and is now detained at the Badili Police station pending transfer to Boroko.

Former Queensland Reds and ACT Brumbies Back, Aiden Toua has expressed delight over running for the Moni Plus Nova in the Pepsi Cup Capital Rugby Union competition despite going down narrowly in a gutsy clash of Round 12 to the Gangloff Consultancy University Piggies at Bava Park. Following the match, Toua gave credit to the Piggies for their defensive effort and said while they may have gone down to a narrow score line, he is certain they can lift in the final rounds leading into the finals. “It was a bit of a difficult one out there, credit to Piggies they played really well. For me it’s the first Rugby game I’ve played in 2 years so just getting through the 30mins is an achievement in itself we’ll (Nova) build leading into the finals.” It has been two years since he announced his retirement from pro rugby in 2020, but the old dog looked to have many tricks up his sleeve that he hopes to pass on to Eddie Galele’s young team. “I’m lucky in this team to have guys on the outside, Blake Mindipi and Warren Silas. They are such good players and when they identify space, me as the old head coming in all, I got to do distribute the ball and let the guys do the rest.” When speaking of the lead up to the match, Toua said there was a little bit of nervous excitement but thanked the Nova boys for being so welcoming, making the move into the club as smooth as possible. He added that he is now looking forward to the next 3 weeks.

The First ever Bali to Port Moresby Citilink flight landed today at the Jackson's International airport welcomed by delegates of the Indonesian Embassy and those of the Foreign Affairs Department. The first Indonesian regular commercial flight, Citilink, landed in Port Moresby at 11am today, formally opening a regular international route connecting the island of Bali in Indonesia and Port Moresby, which will see two flights a week. Citilink, who had been assisting the the Embassy of the Republic of Indonesia during the pandemic and at this juncture will operate in accordance to the 2013 Air Service Agreement between both governments. The 2013 Air Service Agreement paved the way for the two nations’ commercial Airlines to operate between destinations in the two countries. Back then, Air Niugini opened routes once a week from Port Moresby to Bali. Unfortunately flights were ceased in 2018 due to operational considerations, and ever since, the Embassy has made countless efforts to reopen the routes. it was not until February of 2020, Citilink initiated direct flight connections and today is a testament to the hard work and efforts of Citilink. On board with the flight was Citilink Chief Executive Officer and staffs, officials of CASAPNG, Indonesian nationals, and the advance team for the Indonesian President’s State Visit. A short flight ceremony of Citilink was held shortly after the Arrival of the delegates, attended by the Ambassador of the Republic of Indonesia for Papua New Guinea and Solomon Islands, Secretary of the Department of Foreign Affairs and International Trade, Secretary of the Department of Transport, Indonesian Consul in Vanimo, CEO of Citilink, CEO of CASAPNG, Acting Chief of State Protocol of Papua New Guinea. Indonesian ambassador, H.E Andriana Supandy said the opening of the direct flight from Bali to Port Moresby is good for both countries as it helps foster stronger connections, but a show of PNGs commitment for fostering stronger bilateral cooperations. The Citilink direct flight from Indonesia to Papua New Guinea will also be launched during the State Visit of the President of the Republic of Indonesia on 5 July 2023 at the APEC Haus.

Minister for Bougainville Affairs, Manasseh Makiba has spoken against critics, stating that the Government is not putting out roadblocks, allegedly to hinder the parliament to make a final decision in the Bougainville Peace Agreement. The minister said the National Government is very supportive and committed in the implementation of the Bougainville Peace Agreement and the Constitution. “Leaders must refrain from misleading people with wrong information. The people must hear the correct information and process and the rule of law must be respected, followed and upheld at all times.” Makiba stated that section 342 of the Constitution and Clause 311 of the Bougainville Peace Agreement, provides for the National Parliament to make a decision on the 2019 Bougainville referendum results where; Clause 311 of the Bougainville Peace Agreement states: “[a] the [constitutional] amendments will provide that the outcome [of the referendum] will be subject to ratification [final decision making] of the National Parliament.” And section 342 states: “the National Government and the Bougainville Government shall consult over the results of the referendum and subject to the consultation referred to in subsection [1], the minister responsible for Bougainville matters shall take the results of the referendum in the national parliament and the Speaker shall furnish to the Bougainville executive a copy of the minutes of the relevant proceedings and of any decision made in the national parliament regarding the referendum.” He added that the Bougainville Peace Agreement and the Constitution are clear and explicit in respect to this matter.

Moni Plus Nova will be looking to take advantage of the experience of former QLD Reds and Brumbies veteran, Aiden Toua, who will line up for the club this weekend in Round 12 of the Pepsi Cup Capital Rugby Union (CRU) against the Gangloff Consultants University Piggies at the home of PNG Rugby, Bava Stadium. Nova Coach Eddie Galele stated on Wednesday that Toua had approached him to ask if he could line up for the Nova this weekend, an offer Galele said that he could not let go. “I was excited and couldn’t wait to get him involved. He turned up for training on Tuesday and went through the routines with the team and looks in good shape. I am 80 - 90% confident will take the field from the interchange bench,” Galele said. Apart from Galele, this news took the Nova team by surprise, leaving Nova captain Immanuel Levi stoked but excited to take the field alongside one of the countries greats. “I thought Aiden attended training on Tuesday to help out the coach and give us some tips. This is a surprise and am very excited that he will be playing with us. The boys will be excited and we welcome Aiden to the team and look forward to playing alongside him,” Levi said. Toua himself when contacted, stated that he was not sure as to he’s interest to line up this weekend, but said he enjoyed getting down to the park to enjoy the games over the weekend. “To be honest, I am not sure. My uncles, Paul and Ako Toua, played with Harlequins with the likes of Billy Rapilla, late Carl Hoot, Winter Monagi and loved coming down to Bava Park to watch them. I was initially tempted to join them. But something drew me to Nova where my uncle Ako coached a few years back which made me notice them and having trained with the boys, am excited to join such a great club,” Toua mentioned. He added Coach Eddie Galele has a great understanding of how the game is played and where opportunities are and is a great leader. Toua said it has always been his intention to get involved with rugby in PNG. “That has been done and they are happy, I have time to get involved and what better way than to play.” Toua said he was impressed with the standard of rugby in Port Moresby and the natural talent running around in the competition. “The CRU headed by Kori Chan is on an exciting journey and I can see the standards improving quite rapidly in the next 12 months. Hopefully, I can contribute in a small way in helping not only Nova rugby, but the level of rugby in the Pepsi CRU competition and importantly assist everyone realize their potential.” “Just hoping this old body still has some petrol left in it,” Toua concluded.

The Minister for Bougainville Affairs, Manasseh Makiba has clarified his statement to the Parliament that the Bougainville Peace Agreement and the constitution allows for the Parliament to make decision on the 2019 Bougainville Referendum results. In response to articles circulated in the media recently by the Autonomous Bougainville Government’s Attorney General and Minister for the Bougainville Independence Implementation, Ezekiel Masatt stating that the constitution is the Supreme Law and the Constitution gives parliament that authority to make decisions. The Minister strongly stated that the Parliament remains the Supreme decision-making authority. “The Constitution is the Supreme law of the land. The Constitution is not the decision maker.” “The National Parliament is the highest decision-making authority on the land, subject to the constitution.” He said the after the Referendum, the parliament is required to make the final decision and the Government is only implementing what is outlined in the constitution and the Bougainville Peace Agreement. The Recommendation for the vote to be decided by two thirds absolute majority issue is because the referendum vote by parliament is a constitutional issue which has the potential for amendments to be made to the constitution. “It is an issue of sovereignty; therefore, the majority must be the same as that required for constitutional amendments.” Makiba added that it is an ongoing process and was just a recommendation to parliament. And it is still the parliaments prerogative to make its decision as to the appropriate voting of majority.

The PNG Chamber of Commerce & Industry (PNG CCI) have released a letter to the Treasurer, Ian Ling-Stuckey regarding their consideration of the devaluation of the Kina pertaining to the recent International Monetary Fund [IMF] funding to the Country, calling for the Treasury to not go ahead with the Devaluation of the Kina. The letter, written by the President of the PNG CCI, Mr Ian Tarutia, the chamber has acknowledged the analysis and the recommendations by policy advisors that the Kina is overvalued and devaluation within the range of 15-29% is needed. However, PNG CCI have advised that the advantages do not outweigh the negatives, therefore are not in favour of the devaluation. Outlined reasons are as follows; Export Boost, Import Reduction, Inflation & Investor Confidence. “While devaluation increases farm gate commodity prices to PNG Growers of coffee, Palm Oil, Vanilla, Cocoa etc., they maintain that the growers are price takers and not makers and should global demand fall, this will severely impact the pricing and economics of export.” As imports become more expensive, this will influence consumers to purchase locally produced goods, however due to the decline in local industries involved in manufacturing who reported a decline by as much as 20% production capacity while cost of production has increased and no one is buying in volumes. The chamber has asserted that demand will not increase due to high unemployment. This will be one of the main challenges that face the country at the moment. PNGCCI also added that with already increasing prices of imported goods and any increase that is not regulated by the ICCC being passed on to consumers, shelf prices for goods they estimate has gone up by 20%. Additionally, for many business houses, accessing limited forex is already challenging enough just to pay for goods and services.

In a short but significant ceremony at the Boroko Central Business District, the National Capital District Commission announced the official launch of the Boroko Precinct Transformation Project. In recent months, NCDC conducted several awareness campaigns and audiences with stakeholders, arranging clean ups and throughout the Boroko Area in preparation for the Project. According to the NCDC, they have spent more than K400, 000 in rehabilitating public facilities with drainage and road maintenance, repainting Bus stops and the installation of trash bins. As part of the transformative initiative, the Boroko CBD on the 26th of this month was declared a Betelnut Free Zone and will be actively enforced by NCDC. In his welcome remarks, NCD City Manager, Ravu Frank stated that this project is looking to transform Boroko into the Form it deserves. “This very project, the Boroko Precinct Transformation Project is all geared to achieve our desire, our wish and the objective for a clean, safe healthy and planned Boroko for a liveable environment.” Ravu explained that this project came about last year when he and his team developed a clear plan and strategy for the Transformation of Boroko and since then have organized several major clean up campaigns, stakeholder meetings and other activities in the lead up to this. “We envision a precinct that promotes community well-being, economic growth, and social harmony.” “We expect positive outcomes in terms of improved safety, enhanced cleanliness increased economic opportunities and ownership.” He thanked the NCD Governor Powes Parkop for his leadership and the support from the 3 NCD MPs in bringing this initiative to fruition.