The Madang Police Prosecution Section, under the leadership of Acting Officer-in-Charge of Prosecution, Senior Constable Eugene Wanai, conducted its fourth cleanathon program over the weekend in Madang Town.The cleanathon was carried out with support from local business houses, the Community Policing Unit (CPU), schools, government bodies, and members of the public. The initiative aims to promote cleanliness and create a safer and more welcoming environment in Madang. Senior Constable Wanai said the program is part of an ongoing awareness campaign to encourage people to take responsibility for their waste and help restore the beauty of Madang. “The cleanathon is not just a one-time activity or preparation for the PNG Golden Jubilee celebrations.” “It is a monthly program that we’ll continue every month. From our first cleanathon to this recent one, we have noticed positive changes, people are now taking responsibility for their rubbish, and Madang is looking cleaner.” Wanai extended his appreciation to all who participated in the cleanathon held on Saturday, October 4, describing it as a sign of unity and community spirit. “I want to thank all business houses, schools, government bodies, the CPU, Madang Police, and the Madang public for their support and participation.” Meanwhile, Community Policing Unit (CPU) representative Nashon Kamka, also appealed to residents to take ownership of keeping the town clean. “Please, my appeal to the people of Madang, look after your rubbish. This is our town, and we must work together to care for it.” The next cleanathon is scheduled for next month, with the exact date to be confirmed and announced to the public.

A new double classroom at Dibu Primary School in Arabaka Local Level Government (LLG), Middle Ramu district, was officially opened by Madang Governor Ramsey Pariwa on September 18th. The school, started in 2021, was built to reduce long walks for children from Ward Nine. With K50,000 in funding from Governor Pariwa, the community completed the classroom in just four months. Governor Pariwa praised the school board and community for their dedication. “This shows the value of hard work in remote schools. Children in far-flung areas must be a priority,” he said. School Board Chairman Steven Soma thanked the Governor for supporting the project. Education official Kenneth Kalai said the school is being registered with the National Education Department to access government tuition-free funding. Thousands of people from nearby wards attended the opening, celebrating a new chapter in education for children in Dibu and Arabaka LLG.

Papua New Guinea (PNG) has deported 180 foreign nationals in 12 months for violating visa rules, Deputy Prime Minister John Rosso confirmed. Rosso said the government welcomes foreigners but expects everyone to respect PNG law. “All I ask is that people follow the law. If you are here legally, you have nothing to worry about. But anyone breaking visa rules will be deported,” he said. Two weeks ago, 101 more foreign nationals were deported for similar offences. Rosso emphasized that immigration laws will continue to be applied fairly and strictly. He stressed that following the law is essential for maintaining safety, stability, and development in PNG.

Rai Coast residents will soon benefit from a K2.7 million District Community Development Centre (DCDC), a project expected to transform how government services reach the community. The two-storey building, now under construction, is funded by K1 million from the Rai Coast District Development Authority (RDDA), K500,000 from the Department of Community Development, and K1.2 million from government and development partners. Once complete, the centre will house more than 50 workstations, ground-floor offices, and conference facilities for government departments, community development officers, and partner organizations. A transit lodge will also offer safe accommodation for survivors of gender-based and sorcery-related violence, secured with fencing, water tanks, and a standby generator. Department Secretary Jerry Ubase said the centre will do more than provide office space. “It brings services closer to the people and provides a safe space for vulnerable groups,” he said. Minister for Youth, Religion, and Community Development, Jason Peter, said the project is part of the government’s broader plan to strengthen rural services. Rai Coast MP Kessy Sawang said the district has long lacked a central office, making service delivery difficult. “This building bridges that gap and provides support for women, youth, churches, the elderly, and persons with disabilities,” she said. The K2.7 million DCDC, expected to be finished by mid-next year, marks a major step in improving governance, community resilience, and access to essential services in Rai Coast.

Madang Police has thanked the government, businesses, and community partners for helping maintain safety across the province. Acting Superintendent Robert Baim said, “Your support gives us the tools and encouragement we need to keep our communities safe. We value your commitment to law and order in Madang.” He specifically thanked Governor Ramsey Pariwa, the Provincial Administration, Madang Chamber of Commerce, Panu and Furama Supermarkets, Linguan & Co, Leon Hardware, Brian Bell, and Modilon Service Station for their continuous support. The Madang Police encourage everyone to continue working together to ensure a safe and secure province.

Former Madang Governor Peter Yama has expressed sadness over the passing of Morobe Governor, the Late Luther Asikawa Wenge, who died just two days before PNG’s 50th Independence Anniversary. Yama described the loss as “shocking and heartbreaking,” noting Governor Wenge’s dedication to his people as a three-term leader. “He was a great leader who loved and served his people with distinction,” Yama said. He added that Governor Wenge was a close friend and supporter of the People’s Labour Party. “He humbly led the party with dedication until his passing. PLP is grateful for his leadership,” Yama said. Governor Wenge was also known for advocating provincial autonomy, fair resource distribution, and good governance. “On behalf of my family and PLP, we send our deepest condolences to his family and the people of Morobe. Long live Kwila blo Morobe. May his soul rest with the Creator,” Yama concluded.

Authorities in Madang have destroyed a massive haul of marijuana worth up to K300,000 two days ago as part of an ongoing crackdown on drugs. Senior Provincial Magistrate Fredilon Kambibel said the move sends a strong message that drug trafficking and use will not be tolerated. “Drugs are dangerous to health, to families, and to society at large. That is why we must ensure they are destroyed,” he said. Magistrate Kambibel added that while awareness campaigns are important, the law must be enforced to reduce drug-related crimes. Recent offenders caught with up to 16 kilograms of marijuana received prison sentences between 15 and 25 years. “We cannot give minimum penalties. Serious offenses require serious consequences,” he said. Police and courts remain committed to targeting both young offenders and seasoned dealers in Madang.

The Buimo Correctional Service (CS) institution in Lae city is preparing for a big Independence celebration after inmates received food donations from Voltran Limited. The company delivered three cartons of Zenag chicken and a carton of lamb flaps, responding to a request from inmates who wanted to mark Independence Day. More than 1,000 inmates, including women and juveniles, will share the food with staff and their families on Monday, 15th September. Commanding Officer Chief Superintendent Michael Wundia thanked Voltran and other businesses that have supported the celebration. “We appreciate those who have contributed to making this possible for the inmates. I appeal to other companies to come forward as well,” he said. Buimo is also preparing to launch the “Senisim Laip” program later this month, aimed at giving discharged inmates certified training in life skills, trades, financial literacy, and SME business to help them reintegrate productively into their communities.

Ramu Valley Secondary School in Madang is celebrating a big year, not only is PNG turning 50, but the school will also graduate its first Grade 12 class in 2025. The school is known for its strong Grade 10 results and has become one of the top schools in the region. School Board Chairman Tonny Tawelo encouraged students to think about their future. “What will your contribution be? Will you be the doctor who heals, the engineer who builds, or the leader who serves with integrity?” he asked. He told students not to wait to make a difference. “Start now. Do your best in your studies. Respect your culture. Lead in your classroom, on the sports field, and in your community. Be a light,” Tawelo said. “This year is special for both PNG and our school,” he added. “Graduating our first Grade 12 students is a proud moment for everyone—students, teachers, and families.” The school continues to inspire young people in Madang to aim high and honor their heritage.

Madang Provincial Police Commander (PPC), Acting Superintendent Robert Baim, has unveiled a new Royal Papua New Guinea Constabulary (RPNGC) signboard in the province, ahead of the 50th Golden Jubilee celebrations of both the RPNGC and Papua New Guinea. “This is a proud moment for the RPNGC in Madang. The signboard is more than a symbol—it reflects our commitment to serving the community and being part of the national celebrations,” Baim said. The ceremony also marks the start of major upgrades to police infrastructure in Madang. The old police station will be demolished and replaced with a new station fully funded by the Australian Government, while temporary offices will house staff during construction. Baim confirmed that the Jomba Police Station will also be rebuilt, along with a larger cell block to improve detention facilities. “These developments will enhance our operations and improve community confidence,” he said. The upgrades are expected to be completed in the coming months, strengthening the police presence and services across the province during this historic period.

The Member for Rai Coast, Kessy Sawang, has announced a K50,000 allocation to strengthen police and security operations across the district during Papua New Guinea’s 50th Independence celebrations. The funds will be distributed among police units and local level governments (LLGs) to maintain peace, particularly in areas with security concerns. “Under my leadership, we have allocated K50,000 to the police and security,” Sawang said. “Of this, K10,000 will go to Saidor police, K10,000 to Ileg police in Astrolabe Bay LLG, K10,000 to Ramu Sugar police, K10,000 to Nayudo LLG, and K10,000 to support Basamuk water patrols addressing sea piracy.” The patrol boat between Basamuk and Madang town is a key focus. Sawang noted that full-time patrols will protect coastal communities from piracy and ensure safe passage. The funding will also support enforcement of the district’s Good District Local Policies (GDLP) and security bylaws during the four-day Independence program from September 13–16. “Our priority is to make sure communities are safe and people can celebrate freely. This is a proactive step to prevent crime,” Sawang said. She urged the public to cooperate with security forces during the milestone celebrations.

A fleet of 22 canoes from Patalok village, Karkar Island, is making its way to Madang town ahead of Papua New Guinea’s 50th Independence celebrations. The journey, led by Darius Wari, showcases the village’s rich maritime traditions and fishing heritage. “These fishermen have spent their lives on the water,” Wari said. “For the 50th Independence, we want to show our skill and endurance by paddling 32.9 nautical miles from Karkar to Madang. Each canoe represents one province, showing unity across our nation.” The canoes were specially crafted for the occasion and follow traditional trading routes from Karkar to Madang. Historically, villagers traded clay pots, garden produce, coconuts, and sing- sing items along this path. Wari noted the journey also honors Evangelical Lutheran Church missionaries who once traveled these waters carrying gospel messages. “The trip celebrates our identity, our culture, and our connection to the sea,” he said. The Karkar paddlers are expected to be a highlight of the four-day Independence festivities, demonstrating endurance, cultural pride, and community spirit.