The Dolphins have re-signed young gun playmaker Isaiya Katoa with a three-year contract extensionsecuring the Tongan international until at least the end of 2028. After joining the Dolphins from the Panthers’ junior system, the 20-year-old half played 22 NRL matches for the NRL's newest franchise in his debut season last year before representing Tonga in their Test series against England. The Panthers have extended Taylan May on a new two-year extension which will see the star outside back remain at the club until the end of 2026. Returning to the NRL this year after suffering an ACL injury in the 2023 pre-season, the 22-year-old has starred in the centres, averaging 125 run metres and breaking 11 tackles in the Panthers' opening three games. Since making his debut for the Panthers in 2021, the Panthers junior has gone on to score 16 tries in 25 top-flight games and appear in five Test matches for Samoa. "This club and the Panthers jersey means a lot to and I'm proud to stay here for another couple years - this play is home," May said. Source: NRL.Com  

Port Moresby Racquets Club's squash courts are excited as the initial Mojo Social competition kicked off last Wednesday night. Sponsored by Mojo Food Co., the event aims to reignite the passion for squash among players and members, providing a platform for fun-filled matches and friendship. The Wednesday night competition, featuring a round-robin format, commenced promptly at 6 pm on courts 2 and 3. Open to members aged 15 and above, participants paid a minor fee of K20 at the bar, inclusive of a K12 court fee. With a four-week duration starting from March 20th, the competition promises weekly prizes to keep the excitement alive. "We're thrilled to partner with Mojo Socials for this event," said Lady Anna Togolo, President of the PNG Squash Racket Federation. "It's all about bringing our squash community together for an enjoyable evening on the court." The Mojo Social competition isn't just about squash; it's a social affair complete with fundraising activities, including barbecues and raffles. Through these initiatives, the event aims to raise funds for the junior squash team's participation in the Queensland, Rockhampton, Juniors Open at the end of June. "The support from Mojo Food Co. and the community is priceless in nurturing our young talent," Togolo emphasized. "These funds will go a long way in providing opportunities for our juniors to compete internationally." Looking ahead, plans are underway to expand the squash offerings with a corporate team competition slated for June. "We envision a vibrant squash scene in Port Moresby, and events like these are crucial in fostering that," Togolo added. The Mojo Social competition serves as a catalyst for promoting the sport of squash and fostering a sense of community among players. As the competition progresses, participants eagerly anticipate each Wednesday night's showdowns. With Mojo Food Co.'s support, the Wednesday night squash scene at Port Moresby Racquets Club promises to be a highlight on the city's social calendar, bringing together squash enthusiasts of all ages and skill levels for an unforgettable experience.

In a poignant Easter message delivered by His Excellency Grand Chief Sir Bob Bofeng Dadae, Governor General of Papua New Guinea, called upon citizens to reflect on the teachings of Christ and take decisive action against moral decay and societal challenges plaguing the nation. Amidst Easter celebrations marking the resurrection of Jesus Christ, Governor General Dadae emphasized the significance of Christ's sacrifice in paving the way for righteousness and urged Papua New Guineans to embody Christian values, not only in words, but also in deeds. Expressing concern over the escalating breakdown of moral values and the rise of lawlessness and corruption, Governor General Dadae lamented recent incidents of violence and looting in Port Moresby and Enga province. He urged accountability for those responsible for such acts and emphasized the importance of upholding the rule of law. Calling on Christians to "reject temptations and strive for righteousness," Governor General Dadae emphasized the crucial role of the current generation in shaping the nation's future. He urged a shift in mindset from selfishness to united progress, highlighting the value of hard work and honesty in building a prosperous society. Acknowledging the challenges of economic hardships and lack of opportunities, Governor General Dadae stressed the importance of diligence and warned against idleness and materialism. He highlighted the promise of prosperity for those who work hard and urged Papua New Guineans to find satisfaction and peace in their efforts. Governor General Dadae, accompanied by Lady Emeline, extended warm Easter wishes to all citizens, urging them to hold fast to their faith and embrace the path of righteousness. The Easter message by Grand Chief Sir Bob Bofeng Dadae underlines the critical need for national introspection and collective action to address pressing societal issues and steer Papua New Guinea towards a brighter future rooted in Christian values and principles.

The National Capital District Commission has imposed a city-wide liquor ban in NCD beginning this Friday for the duration of the long Easter weekend. As per an NCDC public notice, City Manager Ravu Frank advised the liquor ban ends after Easter Monday, April 1st, with normal business operations resuming on Tuesday, April 2nd. Licensed premises and permit holders affected by the ban include bottle shops, alcohol dealers, taverns, and public bars in Limited Hotels, while those exempted from the ban include restaurants, where liquor is taken as part of the meal by diners and guests, restricted (VIP) club members and their guests. Mr Frank also warned operators that (police) surveillance operations will be carried out during this period, and those found defying the ban will be dealt with accordingly. Meantime, police will ensure strict enforcement, with the public urged to comply for a peaceful Easter period in the city. Outgoing NCD Metropolitan Superintendent Silva Sika stressed the importance of liquor stores adhering to the ban, as police gear up for the Easter operations from Friday, March 29th to Monday, April 1st. Met. Supt. Sika has already met with zone commanders, police station heads, and divisional officers to further strategize for the upcoming weekend, with NCD police directed to conduct surveillance in crime hotspots. He said when people are not busy, they resort to consuming alcohol, which can lead to crime escalation.

Police in Madang are gearing up for the long Easter weekend police operations to ensure safe and peaceful celebrations in the communities in the province. Madang Provincial Police Commander (PPC), Acting Superintendent Robert Baim recently unveiled the plans for their operations for the Easter period. "We have a special operations order for the Easter long weekend in place, our policemen and women will be working tirelessly over the weekend," assured the PPC Baim also emphasized on the significance of Easter for Christians, stating that it is a time to celebrate the Savior's victory and consider better life choices. He stated, "It is a time to sit down and reflect on the kind of life we have lived in the past. Do we need to change for the better?” “Easter is a time where we forgive and forget the past, and look forward to a new tomorrow where we must focus on achieving our goals." The police commander also stressed the need for attitude change and underscored the importance of respecting one another, upholding the rule of law and honoring the nation's constitution. "Let's all be agents of change to bring back Madang to its glory days," urged Baim. Acknowledging that the police rely on community cooperation, Baim called for collective action to address the law and order issues in the province. "Together we can make a difference. Let's all reflect on our lives during this period, make changes in our communities and bring positive changes to our families." Nevertheless, PPC Baim also issued a stern warning to the public to behave this long Easter weekend because his officers will not tolerate people who break the law. "Police will not tolerate anyone disturbing the peace within the community. We will be tough, and we will ensure that you face the full force of the law. Enough is enough," PPC Baim stressed.

During the recent Sponsors Night event at APEC Haus in Port Moresby, Governor General of Papua New Guinea, His Excellency Grand Chief Sir Bob Bofeng Dadae, expressed his happiness at being a part of the 50th anniversary celebration of the Hiri Moale Festival. During his speech, Governor General Dadae greeted the audience warmly and expressed his thanks, recognizing the corporate and business sectors for their essential sponsorship and support over the previous 50 years. Their solid dedication has been helpful in elevating the Hiri Moale Festival to the status of one of the nation's most celebrated cultural occasions. Governor General Dadae underlined the festival's importance, stressing that it is more than just a display of culture. He explained that it was an observance of the customary barter system used by the Koitabu and Motu peoples, along with those of the Gulf Province. Renowned for its intricacy and refinement, this system allowed for interactions founded on a deep knowledge of astronomy and trade. Governor General Dadae also emphasized the festival's contribution to promoting values like respect for elders, family togetherness, and international peace, as well as offering insight into the way of life of ancestors. In his reflections on the value of protecting cultural heritage, Governor General Dadae emphasized the need for corporate and economic sectors to continue providing support. Their efforts have been crucial in helping to publicize the festival, which has drawn thousands of attendees from both domestic and foreign locations. In his positive remarks, Governor General Dadae predicted that during the next 50 years, the Hiri Moale Festival will grow into an even more significant cultural occasion. He restated the importance of the celebration in promoting harmony and goodwill among Papua New Guineans. Governor General Dadae thanked everyone in attendance for their support and presence before closing. He said he was excited to join them in commemorating the 50th Hiri Moale Festival and wished everyone well. The Sponsors Night event marked a significant turning point in the Hiri Moale Festival's ongoing celebration, as it emphasized the festival's importance in preserving and promoting the rich cultural legacy of Papua New Guinea.

Concerns have been raised over the ground-breaking move by the Royal Papua New Guinea Constabulary’s formation of a Sensitive Investigative Board as a crucial step in safeguarding the integrity of investigations concerning constitutional and statutory officeholders, professional journalists, and matters of national security, signalling a significant leap forward in ensuring accountability and integrity within the justice system. Announced by Police Commissioner David Manning on Friday 22nd March, the Board’s primary goal is to prevent politicization and misuse of power by those seeking to manipulate the investigation process for political games or ‘political witch hunts’ “(It) is long overdue… (and)… these employees of the state and media organizations should not be held to ransom by political opportunists manipulating the system’. “People are sick and tired of political opportunists filing dubious complaints against targets they want to remove, and that ultimately gets thrown out of court due to a lack of evidence,” he said after signing directions for the Board’s establishment. Investigations will be conducted transparently, adhering to legal norms and ethical standards, and by ensuring that all inquiries remain free from external influence as the Board aims to restore public trust in the investigative process. But the creation of the RPNGC Sensitive Investigation Board has ignited a spirited debate, particularly among opposition MPs such as East Sepik Governor Allan Bird and Sinesine Yongumugl MP Kerenga Kua, who have raised pertinent concerns regarding its composition and mandate. Chief among these concerns is the perceived lack of independence, as the Board comprises solely police chiefs, raising questions about potential bias and impartiality in critical investigations. But Commissioner Manning contends that: “Each member on the Board has a critical role to play…these are experienced and respected police officers, who have committed to serving their country as career professional police officers.” In terms of composition and Independence, the Board’s ex-officio members bring diverse expertise to the table where the police commissioner is part of the Board, emphasizing its significance, and the Deputy Commissioner of Police (Administration) is responsible for administrative matters within the force, and Deputy Commissioner of Police (Regional Operations) oversees policing activities across different regions, while Deputy Commissioner of Police (Specialist Operations) Manages specialized units such as fraud, cybercrime, and narcotics, and Assistant Commissioner of Police (Crimes) is focused on criminal investigations; and the Director Legal ensures legal compliance and due process. Further to that, Commissioner Manning revealed that if any member of the Board might have what could be perceived as a potential conflict of interest, they will take leave from discussing the relevant matter. “Investigations that are relevant to national security, that cover a range of issues including intelligence matters, weapons smuggling, and incursions of our sovereign territory, will come before the Sensitive Investigations Board,” Commissioner Manning added. However, the opposition, when citing past controversies such as the Paraka scandal, where Prime Minister James Marape remained uninvestigated despite others facing charges, highlighted the need for an independent body to handle high-profile cases, ensuring accountability and fairness. Again, the government contends that the Board's establishment aims to enhance transparency and accountability within the RPNGC, preventing undue influence and interference in sensitive investigations. Commissioner Manning puts it simply: “The stated purpose of the Sensitive Investigations Board is to ensure that criminal investigations are conducted in a transparent and accountable manner that upholds the Rule of Law….matters will be assessed on the merit of any evidence concerning the Law…(and) the Sensitive Investigations Board will also provide additional assurance for hardworking and honest employees of the State, and for members of the professional media, that they can focus on work they were employed to do with less concern of being unfairly targeted for exploitation.” As the Sensitive Investigation Board commences its operations, the public awaits further insights into its operational protocols, the handling of specific cases, and its commitment to upholding the principles of justice and fairness. Moving forward, the opposition's vigilance, ongoing dialogue, and public scrutiny will be crucial in holding the Board accountable and ensuring that it operates transparently, maintains the law, and upholds the principles of justice and impartiality.

Police in the city of Port Moresby were called in to assist the company Hugo Sawmill remove illegal squatters who have been residing on their property just next to the Fly- over at Erima. The eviction, which took place on Monday 25th March, saw the removal of the group comprising of mostly people from the Hela province, illegally residing on the piece of land. Police also claimed that the group of people residing there continuously commit petty crime in the area, and their removal should bring about safety to the community there and the public that pass through that area. The outgoing National Capital District (NCD) Metropolitan Superintendent, Silva Sika, also confirmed that Erima is one of the crime hotspot areas in the city and he is pleased that police are assisting the company to evict the people illegally residing there. Mr. Sika added that since the people are not entitled to any permanent residence in the city, they do not feel obliged to follow and respect the rule of law. Mr. Sika also urged the public to report such group of people who are creating illegal settlements in the city to police or the city authority, so that actions can be taken to address it.

Cowboys fullback Scott Drinkwater expects the injury hit Broncos to provide the biggest test so far for the unbeaten competition leaders in Friday night's Queensland derby. North Queensland have recorded their best start to a season since 2006 after beating the Dolphins, Knights and Dragons in a perfect opening to their premiership pursuit. In contrast, the Broncos have just one win, against last placed South Sydney, and the 2023 grand finalists will be without injured stars Reece Walsh and Payne Haas, while Adam Reynolds remains in doubt for the Easter Friday clash. However, Broncos-Cowboys clashes have historically been tenacious, high-octane and expansive affairs, and Drinkwater said that whoever pulls on a Brisbane jersey will rise to the occasion. “They probably won’t be too happy with what they did against Penrith, they look a bit depleted, but its a ‘XXXX derby’," Drinkwater said. "It's the major Queensland rivalry so no matter who’s playing that one, its always a really good hit-out and they turn up ready to go. “Its going to be a really good contest, it's always a clean contest, both teams just compete hard and there's not a lot of nonsense about it. "I love playing at Suncorp, it’s a great stadium and there will be 40,000 people there. It's always great to play the Broncos and they’ll be up for the challenge." Drinkwater has kicked off his 2024 campaign in style, averaging 164 running metres per game, while also racking up three try assists and 14 tackle breaks, to help the Cowboys sit alone at the top of the premiership ladder. But despite their positive start to the season, Drinkwater believes there is plenty of improvement needed after conceding 24 points in a high-scoring affair at Netstrata Jubilee Stadium last Saturday. We haven't played our best footy, there's still a lot to work on but we won’t complain with having six points on the board already," Drinkwater said. "There’s big improvement in us, I believe. We didn't start well [against the Dragons] so we've got  to work on our starts. We also didn't start well against Newcastle either, so there's a few things we need to work on there." The Cowboys accredit their impressive start to the season on a concerted effort during the pre-season to become a fitter team, with improved physical conditioning coming into this year's Telstra Premiership. After beating the Knights in extra time and coming from behind to down the Dragons, Cowboys coach Todd Payten said his team had a better preparation for their premiership tilt than in recent seasons. “We have had an extra seven weeks together in the pre-season period so everyone’s a little bit fitter than where we were last year," Payten said. "Things could have been different last week, but it’s important you can win those games and that does great things to your confidence." The Cowboys left-edge attack is reaping the rewards of their pre-season work, with centre Valentine Holmes surpassing 1000 career points with an 18-point haul in the 46-24 defeat of St George Illawarra. Veteran winger Kyle Feldt, who broke Brisbane hearts when he scored in the final minute of the 2015 grand final, needs just one try to overtake Matt Bowen as North Queensland's greatest try scorer. Source: NRL. Com

Nine-year-old Max Ben stands as a resilient testament among six Papua New Guineans who survived a harrowing sea voyage mishap, enduring a month adrift in the treacherous waters of Kiribati before being rescued by a Chinese fishing vessel. Now safely returned to Port Moresby, Max and his fellow survivors, including Nason Koesana (48), Stanis Logan (41), Bensley Kaskas (35), Raynard Raiasok (25), and Liddy Birigin Kenehata (25), are receiving essential medical checks, care, trauma counseling, and spiritual support to aid their recovery from the ordeal. Their journey began innocently enough on January 27th, departing from Anir Island in New Ireland, with the tragic turn of events leaving two individuals unaccounted for, their fate now under the scrutiny of the NCD Homicide team. Despite the grim circumstances, Foreign Affairs Minister said their safe return was made possible through the collaborative efforts of PNG and international agencies, epitomizing the strength of global cooperation in times of crisis. According to Minister Tkatchenko, the survivors, all from the Autonomous Region of Bougainville were part of a group of eight people traveling in a 23-foot banana boat from Anir Island in New Ireland to Buka in the Autonomous Region of Bougainville, after an initial stop at Lihir Island to drop off a passenger, when their boat ran out of fuel. When they failed to reach their destination, the concerned boat owner, Bartholomew Sareka of Lontis village in the Haku Constituency of Buka, promptly reported the incident to the Bougainville Disaster Office and Emergency Directorate and initiated search efforts in collaboration with the PNG Maritime Rescue Coordinating Centre. It was revealed that two persons on board were unable to survive the tough ordeal at sea right through to the end. Despite the challenges posed by bad weather, relentless search efforts led to the eventual discovery and rescue of the survivors by the Lometo, a Mashall Island flag fishing vessel operated by a Chinese company, after 31 days at sea in the Solomon and Kiribati waters on Monday 26th February. On board Lometo, the six PNG survivors, all from ARoB, were provided with necessary food and accommodation. A formal diplomatic note was conveyed by the Chinese Embassy in PNG to Foreign Affairs Minister Tkatchenko the next day, who thanked the Chinese Ambassador His Excellency Zheng Fanhua, his staff, and the crew for efficiently communicating, ensuring and placing high consideration on the safety, well-being, and rescue assistance by the Chinese shipping vessel crew, of PNG citizen's Thus, began PNG’s Foreign Affairs department’s work to contact relevant agencies and coordinate arrangements for the return of the six survivors to PNG, resulting in the successful repatriation out of Tarawa, Kiribati into Port Moresby on Wednesday 20th March, thanks to the collaboration of the Department of Foreign Affairs and the Bougainville Disaster & Emergency Directorate, National Disaster Centre (NDC), and the National Coordination Office of Bougainville Affairs (NCOBA. Minister Tkatchenko said the survivors arrived in the country with the close assistance of the Foreign Affairs Consular Branch team at the Port Moresby International Jackson Airport. He further expressed utmost appreciation to the Chinese Government through its Embassy in Port Moresby, the Government of Kiribati, the Fiji High Commission in Port Moresby, the National Disaster Centre, the National Coordination Office of Bougainville Affairs, Bougainville Disaster and Emergency Directorate, and the Department of Foreign Affairs and its overseas mission in Suva, Fiji for the joint efforts to ensure the safe arrival of the survivors in the country. Minister Tkatchenko while also offering his thanks to the Chinese Lometo crew, highlighting the close PNG-China relations currently, had ensured efficient communications. "We are very grateful in this particular case, for our relations with the Government of the Peoples Republic of China, and the Chinese Embassy - for their efforts through their monitoring systems, and the prompt communications of the rescue.” “I was able to personally convey the news of this rescue to the immediate families on the day they were found, as a result of their stringent protocols.” “Additionally, we salute and thank the crew of the fishing vessel, the Lometo for their part in the month-long search and rescue, and their care and rehabilitation efforts for the survivors.”

The village of Elevala in the city of Port Moresby came alive with joy and celebrations following the crowning of Miss Elevala as 2024 Miss Hiri Hanenamo in the 50th Hiri Moale Festival over the weekend on Sunday, 24th March. The young Miss Elevala, Henao Heni, also received accolades adding to her victory in the quest. She was presented with gifts, a K10, 000 Education Scholarship and a K5, 000 cash Prize from the Major Sponsors. Miss Elevala was followed by Miss Pari, Margret Ali as the Runner Up and Miss Kirakira, Mabata Noka Paul, who received the Miss Hetura Award. The three participants out of the ten were voted by the judges following a rigorous judging process. The 50th Hiri Moale Festival consisted of ten contestants representing the Motu Koita villages of Kido, Tubusereia, Gaire, Barakau, Gabagaba, Kirakira, Tatana, Boera, Elevala and Pari. Meanwhile, NCD Governor, Powes Parkop, during the judging and presentation, expressed gratitude and appreciation to all the Motu Koita Chairman past and present, the Committees, Judges, communities and stakeholders for maintaining the Hiri Moale Festival up to its 50th Anniversary. He said the festival over five decades has successfully elevated to new heights the promoting of cultural and traditional beliefs and attire, which has also boosted tourism in the capital city. “The Hiri Moale Festival has entered a new stage, becoming a tourism trade platform attracting tourists far and wide,” said the NCD Governor. The 2024 50th Hiri Moale Festival event was proudly sponsored by Platinum sponsors, Exxon Mobil, Digicel PNG and PNG LNG. Golden sponsors Steamship, Trukai, Hebou and BSP, and the Silver Sponsors House of Gemini, BizPrint, Budget, Pi, Pepsi, PNG Gardener and Havanah Beauty Box.

Prime Minister James Marape has announced a special pay run to address affected salary issues for PNG Defence Force personnel. The issue has been pending since last week when what was scheduled to be the upgrade of their salary, was not implemented due to slow data input by the Department of Defence. But this is expected to be sorted out today, according to the prime minister. “Government has given the assurance that a special pay run will be made, and as I speak today, a special pay run is being made for them." Prime Minister Marape further commended their professional manner in handling their affected salary issue. The prime minister also praised the defense force for handling their pay and paperwork correctly. He acknowledged that sometimes administrative processes can be slow, but stressed the importance of following the Rule of Law, highlighting the need to avoid unlawful actions, when contrasting it with the recent misconduct by some police officers on January 10th. He expressed gratitude to the defense force for upholding the law and facilitating administrative tasks.