A local male Arts and Crafts vendor was almost victim of a theft from local turf burglar this morning Monday 24th June, at 10:30am broad daylight along the Ahuia Street towards Gordons Business Centre, Port Moresby. The local vendor after a long morning of selling out his crafts products made his way from Theodist with the intention to check on his companions after the Waigani Tunnel. Walking alone, the burglar attacked him in attempt to steal his earnings and belonging, but was saved by individuals nearby the area. The failed violent attempt resulted with the victim bleeding from his right side forehead which came in contact with a metal object during the struggle to defend himself. Eye witnessed assumed the object was believed to be a scrap metal used as a weapon, the local vendor promised the burglar to come back with reinforcements, which was assumed to be his friend and family members according to the public. The local vendor was saved by the public members who managed to scare of the street burglar due to the high number of individuals ready to interfere. The burglar escaped through the drain pavement directly opposite Waigani Tunnel Service Station at Ahuia Street. According to witnesses, the local vendor was lucky to escape with his belongings as he was already over powered until their arrival in numbers that scared the burglar. The victim and burglar were both male and believed to be in the ages of late 20’s to 30 and from central province. Majority of witnesses suggest that it is no longer safe even for men to travel alone, especially in new territories, and especially if these incidents can happen in the city. The crowd even further questioned, “Where are police when you need them.” From observation and remarks from the public, travelling in the vicinity of Port Moresby needs to be in pairs or a group to maintain safety for yourself, family and companions.

The Moni Plus NCD Vipers claim a draw against the Enga Mioks on Sunday June 23rd at the National Football Stadium, Port Moresby. The trailing NCD Vipers claimed enough points to draw against the Enga Mioks thanks to Vipers' Second rower and former SP Hunters Julius Yakopa in the dying 5 seconds remaining till full time. The NCD Vipers in their home ground lifted quickly gained the lead in the first 10minutes of the first half, by their same right center Thomas Kuipa scoring 2 tries. However, Vipers' five eight failed to sink both conversions but still in the lead of 8-8. The games intensity grew quickly as the Enga Mioks were yet to score their first. Dropped balls and high tackles from both teams increased and fueled the players to run and defend hard. The Enga Mioks took advantage during a high tackle penalty gaining up to 20meters of the Vipers' try line when the Enga Mioks reserve center Joshua Philip excelled his way through the NCD Vipers' defense twice scoring two third in the 30th minutes including another in the 39th minute of the full time of first Half, Enga Mioks leading 12-8. The 6th minute into the second half saw NCD Vipers' fullback Henry Marai take his own course into the Enga Mioks try line pushing the NCD Vipers to the lead 14-12 following a successful conversion. The NCD vipers exhausted their efforts to defend their lead with defense, challenging the Enga Mioks to score until the Mioks fired back with a try in the 19th minutes by forwards prop Yomo Yakopa following a successful conversion leading the game 18-14. The remaining 18 minutes saw the Vipers brutally persevered their way to gain the lead but were defeated by mistake and the Enga Mioks strong defense. With less than 5 minutes left, the Enga Mioks slowly playing to delay time, the vipers gained possession of the ball from lost ball and slowly developed their way to the try line. The ball was released to the short side to the second rower Julius Yokopa, where he shoved not three but four players from his path and score the final try. The Vipers levelled the scoreboard 18-18 then an unsuccessful conversion left both teams at draw 18 points all. Brutal sights witnessed in the second half, both team players were eager to cause pain during attack and defense, verbal insults were exchanged following the hard tackles and runs. This became frequent in the full second half 40 minutes which lead to 3players sin binned and close to three quarrels in 10 minutes. Luckily no major injury or violence was encountered during the game and quarrels.

The NCD Governor Powes Parkop was pleased to Kick-off the 2-weeks Tuene Sports Competition (TSC) on Tuesday 19th June for the community residence in Tokarara, Port Moresby. The TSC initiative was brought together to established aid to parents and guardians to keep their youths occupied in their community during the National Census period, according to the TSC Games Coordinator Mr. Junior Maru. “Our Community have forgotten to take care of their body healthy and competition will involve the youths and adults to play, to keep healthy and fit for their own well-being." Mr. Maru emphasized no confirmed financial amount has been announced from the NCD Governor, however communication has been establish and confirmation will be given soon before the end of the week to prepare for competition finals next week. Exactly 40 teams have registered for both men and women respectively. However, due to the teams as far as Hohola 4 registering, the divisions was recently changed from age groups to mixed ages involving youth and adults in each team. The competition involves Rugby Touch of 13’s, 7’s for Men and Volley Ball for Women. These games were carefully weighed out by the community games officials as parents and guardians were showing interest in participation. Mr. Maru mentioned that the competition will take almost 2 weeks, Next week would see the finals as initial round started on Wednesday and today being the 4th round of the game draws. He further concluded the winners will be awarded prize money including the trophies from the Cup, Bowl and Plate. The finals and Grand final will commence next week accordingly to the schedule prepared.

The Papua New Guinea Olympic Committee (PNGOC) is pleased to announce the newly appointed Team PNG's Chef de Mission (CdM), Mr. Kinivanagi Karo. Mr. Karo formally served as the Male Vice President on the PNGOC Executive Board. Being recently elected CdM during the recent PNGOC Board Meeting on June 12, 2024. Mr. Karo will be the CdM for the 2025 Pacific Mini Games in Palau. With this position in the Team PNG’s CdM, Mr. Karo will now be entitled to several responsibilities leading to the wellbeing of the National Team ensuring the overall success and unity throughout the 2025 Palau Games. These responsibilities include: - Leading to support and improve performance of Team PNG. - Represent Team PNG as an official spokesperson. - Lead training and selection of the General Management Team (GMT). - Present in significant meetings and engagements relating to Team PNG and Games. - Nurturing and maintaining relationships with team members, VIPs, Government delegates, and sponsors. - Presenting and preparing reports within two months of the Games completion. Mr. Karo was pleased with the outcome as he expressed his gratitude and sense of responsibility. "I am equally elated at the opportunity to lead Team PNG in this capacity and look forward to working closely with the PNGOC Secretariat and relevant stakeholders to begin the planning process." Representatives from eight sports, Archery, Athletics, Basketball 3x3, Beach Volleyball, Judo, Softball, Swimming, and Table Tennis, attended the meeting, where they provided updates on recent and upcoming championships. However, PNG will be striving to participate in 11 of the 14 sports offered at the Palau 2025 Games. The 2025 Palau Mini Pacific Games are scheduled to take place from June 29 to July 9, 2025.

The Australia through the Australian Federal Police (AFP) support the Royal Papua New Guinea Constabulary, constructing of police housing and investing in Bomana Police Training College. The initiative first stages will enable the AFP to construct housing barracks styled accommodation in various priority provinces commencing in Port Moresby, Kokopo and Mt Hagen. This will ensure RPNGC recruits to be allocated in in regional centres upon graduation. Meanwhile, Australia continues to invest in the Bomana Police Training College. Australia invests in accommodation and police barracks across the nation to assist the recruits and officers in their challenging and valuable work. Attorney General Australia (AGA) Mr. Mark Dreyfus emphasized his gratitude to the AFP and RPNGC and the pacific partners in the Solomon Islands International Assistance Force to deliver support to friends in the Solomon Islands to ensure a wonderful Pacific Games in 2023 following a smooth joint election in 2024. “As the Attorney General and First Law Officer of Australia, I am pleased to that Australia is working with Papua New Guinea to support the broader system of law and justice.” “I thank PNG and the RPNGC for the offering to open the training College to other Pacific Police Forces,” said Mr. Dreyfus. Mr. Dreyfus echoed Australian Prime Minister on Prime Minister James Marape address to the Australian Parliament in February last year, February. “Australia will never forget what the people of Papua New Guinea did for Australia in the past. Let us never forget what we can achieve together.” In his conclusion Mr. Dreyfus added his excitement for the future, looking forward to continuing working with PNG as those before us all, to support the peace, prosperity and resilience of our countries and across our region.

The Commissioner of Police, David Manning, has warned squatters around the Porgera Mine in Enga province that thievery and ethnic violence will not be tolerated following multiple injuries and fatalities from recent confrontations. Over the past 48 hours security personnel have responded to a series of intergroup fighting violent confrontations on private land resulting in some criminals sustaining fatal wounds and injuries. "The killed or injured during confrontations with security personnel and amongst themselves, are common criminal outsiders attempting to steal gold from the mine and are fighting enemy clans,” said the Police Commissioner. “The number of injured or killed in the incidents that escalated over the last 48 hours is still being assessed. These squatters not only risk their lives to thieve, more seriously they risk the lives of their children who are sent in to steal rocks containing gold after they have been blasted with explosives.” "A further problem is that these squatter groups also fight with each other for illegal access to mine areas resulting in violence and the loss of life,” said Commissioner Manning. The Commissioner assured squatters and criminals that if they were to raise a weapon, they will be sacrificing their lives, as police and soldiers have zero tolerance for these actions. “Our security forces have my support, and that of the law, to protect themselves and others from acts of violence and criminality. When any individual raises a weapon to harm another person, police and soldiers will neutralize this threat.” “Our security personnel assess any threat to life and limb, so they can protect the public and workers as well as other security personnel,” Commissioner Manning added. The fighting factions have been warned that if they escalate violence again, security forces will intervene to detain or neutralize anyone attempting to use a weapon. All these matters will be investigated thoroughly. Joint security forces are tasked with a clear job to maintain public order and will carry out that duty impartially and fairly

The Australian Government has gifted the Royal Papua New Guinea Constabulary (RPNGC) with a newly fitted boat to serve under the Police Sea Patrol fleet. The boat, which formerly served as an Australian Police Sea Vessel, is now the largest sea vessel to serve in the RPNGC. The donation of the new vessel comes under the Bilateral Security Agreement signed by Prime Minister James Marape last year with Australia. The gifting ceremony, which was held at the Royal Papuan Yacht Club in Port Moresby, saw delegates of both Papua New Guinea and Australia such as, Attorney General of Australia (AGA) Mr. Mark Dreyfus, Australian High Commissioner Reece Kershaw APM, PNG Prime Minister James Marape, PNG Foreign Affairs Minister Justin Tkatchenko, PNG Commissioner of Police MBE David Manning, ministers, commissioners, and distinguished counterparts. The former Australian vessel known as the Van Diemen will now be known as the “Minigulai” as it scours the seas of PNG and marine Borders monitoring and deterring illegal and unregulated activities, and to be used for rescue operations and marine enforcement. The AGA Mr. Dreyfus on behalf of Australia Federal Police (AFP) under the Australian Government was pleased to share his words of good will and pleasure towards contributing to RPNGC sea patrol fleet, gifting one of the largest vessels in the RPNGC Fleet. “In Australia you have been assured as a friend and I believe we shall form a true partnership to forge a great advantage of both our countries and for the welfare of both our peoples,” said Mr. Dreyfus. Mr. Dreyfus reiterated the initial commitment and words by the forefathers of Australia and PNG, Grand Chief Michael Somare and Edward Gough Whitlam. Words that foretold the links, strong and true, between our nations. Links that grow in strength and in diversity. Minigulai will commit itself to the seas to establish mutual security operations for both nations and maintain the proper security in the PNG Marine Borders from illegal activities. The 23 meters vessel Minigulai spent almost three decades with the Tasmania Police Fleet. Built from marine grade aluminium, it has a successful patrol history and proven itself on the waters of the Brass Strait, Tasman Sea and Rugged Southern Ocean. It made its final three weeks journey to PNG from Hobart, Australia.

The National Fisheries Authority (NFA) yesterday, Tuesday 11th June, presented a brand-new ambulance to the Western Pacific University (WPU) Health Centre in Ialibu, Southern Highlands Province. . The K300, 000 worth ambulance was presented by Corporate Social Responsibility Manager Mr. Steven Poning on behalf of NFA Managing Director, Justin Ilakini, where the President of Western Pacific University Dr. Janet Rangou accepted the present during a small ceremony witnessed by staff, students, and surrounding communities in Ialibu. Mr. Poning underscored the crucial role the ambulance plays in rural communities, empowering individuals and communities to access necessary medical support, thereby potentially saving lives. He highlighted the significance of the government's ongoing development initiatives in rural areas, which aim to provide essential resources such as medical support to ensure lives can be saved during emergencies. On behalf of the University, Dr. Rangou expressed gratitude for the government's donation through NFA. “The importance of the ambulance in serving not only the university community, but also the nearby communities, and providing support to the Ialibu and Mendi Hospitals,” Dr. Rangou said. In addition, Dr. Rangou emphasized the need for the communities to protect this resource, highlighting its critical aid in transporting the seriously ill and injured cases to major hospitals or nearby provinces like Western Highlands, Jiwaka, and Simbu. The ambulance donation also reflects NFA’s corporate social responsibility on behalf of the government to support healthcare services across the country.

The Papua New Guinea (PNG) Tour Guide (TG), Freelance Tour Guide is preparing its independent tour operations for this year’s National Mask Festival which will be held from the 10th to the 13th of July. PNGTG Freelance Tour Guide owner, Mr. Dominic Tulo expressed excitement to PNG Hausbung for the upcoming National Mask and Warwagira Festival, stating that bookings have already been established for this significant annual event. Mr. Tulo mention that the festival is the oldest and famous festival that not only attracts tourist to witness the festival of diverse mask cultures of East New Britain (ENB) province, but also supports the local communities to promote their local products and services. Mr. Tulo emphasized that the festival will also support local tour services by giving an existential understanding to visitors through personalized tour escorts on local vessels, for visitors to have a fulfilling adventure of the island life, witness tropical sites and explore history once again. He further added that the PNG Tour Guide promotes an understanding of the diverse cultures and natural beauty of ENB through genuine tour escort services and personalized trips for visitors, especially to the most popular tropical, volcanic and World War Two sites. However, according to Mr. Tulo the PNG Tour Guide was very active until it faced a true challenge during the Covid-19 pandemic in 2020. The pandemic really paused the momentum of operations until the domestic market was utilized to slowly revive the PNGTG with the pandemic passing. Now, PNGTG is back to full operation and provides personalized tour, independent tour and hire cars in ENB and across PNG.

Police officers in the city of Port Moresby continue to carryout awareness reminding Illegal squatters residing at Bush Wara in the Moresby North- East electorate that they have less than 35 days remaining to vacate the land before the eviction scheduled for July 11th commences. The eviction is directed towards settlers on land portions 2156, 2157 and 2159 at Nine Mile belonging to the superfund, Nambawan Super. Due to no major movement observed, the police officers conducted another motorized awareness last week Friday, 7th July throughout the Bush Wara area. The Police informed the illegal squatters the 120-day grace period offered to squatters will effectively end on July 10th according to the Court Order dated April 9th, 2024. The Acting Commander for National Capital District (NCD) and Central province, Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP) Peter Guinness, confirmed that police officers continue to carry out their duty of informing the illegal settlers to vacate the land portions as the days continue to count down. "The people must obey the court order and move before July 11th." ACP Guiness stated, "If we don't execute the court order in place, my officers and I will be liable for contempt of court. We drove awareness since the start of the 120-day grace period encouraging the squatters to vacate during the grace period.” “Awareness will continue in the remaining days leading up to the eviction. However, people should not wait until the last minute and then get upset that their materials and personal belongings have been destroyed." “The squatters now have less than 35 days remaining,” ACP Guinness added. ACP Guiness also emphasized that police will not do any more awareness after July 10 and will commence the eviction exercise swiftly on July 11th as more than enough time was provided to people to move out. He further added that police had also received information about certain individuals who are moving around the properties telling people not to move. Police are now investigating the matter. He stressed that there is a Court Order in place and that people must respect the decision of the Court and adhere to it by moving out now. ACP Guinness also added that people who are issuing threats to or are harassing the employees of Nambawan Super and or the police officers conducting the awareness, must refrain from doing that. He said several reports have been received, and police are closely investigating these and will not take the matter lightly. “We all must respect the decisions of the Court and adhere to it. The only place to challenge this Court Oder is in Court. Affected parties and individuals should follow this process, instead of resorting to threats.”

The Santos Foundation has partnered with the Pimaga Vocational Education Training (VET) to provide greater opportunities for over 60 young people from the local Kutubu area, in the Southern Highlands Province. This allows them a second chance to re-enter the education system, and upgrade their high school qualifications through a newly established Flexible Open Distance Education (FODE) Centre. Santos Foundation said this initiative is part of its commitment under its Youth Opportunities Program to focus on improving opportunities for young people close to their home locations. The collaboration is possible thanks to support from Digikesen Training & Consultancy, making FODE now operational in Pimaga. More work is currently underway to reinforce and support teaching staff and young people in the local area to effectively utilize the services offered by the Centre. Sixty-six (66) students commenced FODE courses this year - this includes 50 students in Grade 11; and 16 in Grade 10, significantly boosting potential graduation numbers for the Kutubu area. In addition to this significant milestone, textbooks for all enrolled students were successfully distributed, ensuring all students having the necessary materials for their studies, which enables them to actively engage with the curriculum, and help them complete their assignments. “According to a 2019 survey the majority of young people determined they wanted to remain in Kutubu,” said Anthony Uechtritz, who is the Senior Program Manager for the Santos Foundation’s Youth Opportunities Program. “It is important we support them to do so for their development and the development of their district.” Pimaga VET Principle Mr. Warubi also expressed gratitude to Santos Foundation and Digikesen for the time and effort towards the project within Kutubu Local Level Government. “This would not have been possible without your support, and we are committed to ensuring the success of FODE.” FODE provides a vital educational opportunity for early school leavers in Papua New Guinea, especially those in remote and rural areas, and is a program endorsed by the National Department of Education, enables students to take on studies at the level they last completed and continue on to secure a Grade 12 qualification. FODE also offers a pathway for individuals to improve their grades for tertiary education entry. By addressing the challenges of distance, limited spaces in schools, teacher shortages, and financial constraints, FODE empowers learners to pursue their academic and professional aspirations.

The policy of Yangoru-Saussia District continues to remain as ‘God First and Education Second’ in the East Sepik Province. This Policy, upheld by the leadership of the local MP and Minister for International Trade and Investment, Richard Maru, has resulted in the local District Development Authority (DDA) continuing to invest more into education these past 12 years. Recently Minister Maru announced the completion of a new 4-in-1 classroom at Mohonji Four Square Primary School in Negrie, saying he was pleased with the completed project. “I am very pleased with the completion of the very outstanding 4-in-1 classroom at Mohonji Four Square Primary School, built by a very outstanding team and funded by the Yangoru-Saussia DDA.” “This classroom will be officially opened this month (June, 2024) together with another 4-in-1 classroom at Kukawi Primary School.” He also announced new plans for boosting infrastructure in the education sector in the electorate. “We will also be constructing a new 4-in-1 classroom at Boim-Sara Primary School and at Kumbuhun Primary School.” “Also starting on the new Tuonumbu Primary School next year while we finish off the new 4-in-1 classroom at Simbomie, and build more staff houses and a 4-in-1 classroom at Numbo Primary School.” “We have also completed the 2-in-1 classroom at Saingi Primary School in the Sepik Plains.” Currently, for Wingei Secondary School, preparations are ongoing for a new spike fence to be erected.