A devastating incident unfolded on Bagbag Island in Madang Province, resulting in the tragic death of 23-year-old Shammika Pantumari. The young woman was fatally stabbed on Saturday evening, allegedly by Salul Kiari, a 24-year-old man from Swit village in Raikos District. Kiari has since been arrested and charged with wilful murder. Shammika Pantumari, the daughter of Senior Constable Joe Pantumari of the Madang Police, had traveled to the island with a singsing group from Yabob village. They were attending a funeral ceremony, a traditional gathering that turned into a scene of tragedy. The attack occurred between 6:30 pm and 7:30 pm on February 22, according to police reports. The suspect, Kiari, allegedly confronted Pantumari about her movements before stabbing her in the left rib with a kitchen knife. The incident was sudden and shocking, as described by Madang Provincial Police Commander Acting Superintendent Robert Baim. "The incident happened so fast that villagers saw her bleeding as she ran for help before collapsing," Baim reported. Despite efforts to get her medical assistance, Pantumari was pronounced dead upon arrival at a local health center. Following the incident, both the suspect and the victim's body were transported to Madang town. The police have scheduled a post-mortem examination for February 26 to further investigate the circumstances of her death. Meanwhile, Kiari remains in custody at Jomba Police Station and is expected to appear before the Madang District Court on charges of wilful murder. In light of this tragic event, Acting Superintendent Baim has issued a warning to young girls to be cautious around youths, particularly those who may be under the influence of illicit substances. He emphasized the potential dangers posed by individuals who might act recklessly without regard for life. Police are continuing their investigation to uncover the motive behind this brutal attack, seeking to understand what led to such a violent confrontation. The community remains in shock, mourning the loss of a young life and grappling with the implications of the incident. The case highlights ongoing concerns about safety and substance abuse in the region, prompting calls for increased vigilance and preventive measures.

The Trukai Smart Farmers Training program is equipping farmers in Markham District with the skills to grow rice using the Irrigated Rice Farming method, providing them with opportunities to sustain their livelihoods and venture into rice farming as a business. According to Karo Nanivah, Team Leader of Radza Corporative Society, the training program is structured into four key modules designed to enhance farmers' knowledge and practical skills. "The first module introduces farmers to the rice crop, its growth phases, stages, and overall development." "The second module focuses on selecting suitable environments for irrigated rice farming, designing paddocks, managing fields, and growing rice." "The third module covers pest identification, management, and the cultivation cycle, while the final module teaches farmers how to establish and manage a rice farming business,” Nanivah explained. Ragidumpiat Village, located in Ward 21, Umi/Atzera LLG, Markham District, was specifically chosen as the training site due to its suitability for irrigated rice farming. "The rice paddock selected by the 10 Trukai Smart Farmers Batch 4 participants has a reliable water source, making it ideal for practical lessons." "Additionally, we have a significant number of local farmers here who are interested in rice farming." "After conducting a risk assessment, Trukai Industries also found that Ragidumpiat is a safe location to trial the Smart Farmers Training Program in a rural setting,” Nanivah said. While rural training presents logistical challenges, Nanivah noted that the overall process has been more efficient and cost-effective. "It is proven through this training that running programs in rural areas is cheaper and allows us to train more farmers." "However, we encountered minor challenges, such as the need for training materials and merchandise, which were identified and addressed." The Trukai Smart Farmers Training is expected to boost rice production in the region, paving the way for Markham farmers to transition into commercial rice farming and contribute to Papua New Guinea’s agricultural sector.

A police operation in Madang to capture wanted criminal Yaks Linus Wanamari ended with his escape after he was wounded during a confrontation with law enforcement. Wanamari, 24, from Manjuat village in East Sepik, is facing multiple serious charges including murder, arson, armed robbery, and rape. The incident unfolded early Monday morning when police responded to a report of Wanamari threatening a resident at RD Cannery Ltd with a homemade firearm. Upon arriving at the scene, police pursued Wanamari into nearby shrubs. Acting Provincial Police Commander Robert Baim confirmed that Wanamari was shot in the leg after resisting arrest. He was taken to Modilon General Hospital for treatment, but despite his injuries, Wanamari managed to escape from the hospital's Emergency Ward. Authorities are continuing the search for him. Wanamari, known to frequent the RD Cannery and Bumbu Wara Market in Lae, remains on the run. Police are urging the public to report any sightings. "We will not rest until we find you," said PPC Baim, emphasizing the importance of community cooperation in ensuring safety.

As Papua New Guinea gears up for its 50th Independence Anniversary, Acting Superintendent Robert Baim, the Madang Provincial Police Commander, has issued a heartfelt call for unity among the residents of the province’s six districts. He emphasized the importance of celebrating this historic milestone with a spirit of togetherness and assured the public of a safe and peaceful event. In his address, Baim reflected on the significance of the anniversary as a time for both reflection and celebration. “This is an opportunity for us to come together, honor our shared identity, and embrace the rich cultural heritage that defines us as a province,” he stated. He urged the community to set aside differences and unite as one people, encouraging everyone to uphold traditions that promote harmony and respect. Baim was resolute in his assurance that the police force is fully prepared to support the celebrations across all districts. “We are here to ensure that everyone can participate in the festivities with joy and safety,” he said. He further emphasized that any attempts to disrupt the celebrations would be met with strict action. He called on the people of Madang to embrace unity, pride, and mutual respect as the nation marks this historic milestone. Baim also highlighted the importance of remembering and respecting the contributions of the nation’s founding leaders, such as Sir Michael Thomas Somare, Sir Julius Chan, Sir Angmai Bilas, Sir Bato Bultin and many othrr great leaders. These leaders, he noted, have sacrificed greatly for the nation's future. “Let us come together to honor their legacy and celebrate the journey of our nation,” Baim concluded, reinforcing the message of unity and collective pride as Papua New Guinea stands on the threshold of its 50th year of independence. Through these celebrations, he hopes to inspire a renewed commitment to the values that have strengthened the nation over the past half-century.

The Madang Provincial Police Commander has strongly condemned the sexual assault of a three-and-a-half-year-old girl, describing it as a disturbing and inhumane crime. Acting Superintendent Robert Baim told PNG HAUSBUNG that the actions of the suspect are abhorrent and completely unacceptable in our society. “We will ensure that justice is served and that such crimes are met with the full force of the law.” According to police reports, the incident occurred on December 29, 2024, in the DCA Settlement area. The suspect allegedly lured the victim and her one-year-old brother to a secluded area behind James Barnes Cannery, where the assault took place. Baim urged the community to remain vigilant and report any suspicious behavior. “The safety of our children is a shared responsibility,” he said." “We must work together as a community to prevent such horrific crimes and protect our most vulnerable.” He also called for increased support for victims of sexual violence, including access to counseling, medical care, and legal assistance." “This case highlights the urgent need for more awareness and education on child protection,” Baim said. "We must instill a culture of respect and responsibility to ensure our children grow up in a safe environment.” Police continue to investigate the case, and authorities have urged the public to report any information that could assist in ensuring justice is served.

A 24-year-old man has been arrested and charged for allegedly sexually assaulting a three-and-a-half-year-old girl at DAC Settlement in Madang Province. The suspect, originally from Yakamul village in Aitape, Sandaun Province, was taken into custody after the victim's mother reported the incident. According to police, the assault occurred on Sunday, December 29, 2024, between 4:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m. Reports indicate that the suspect lured the victim and her one-year-old brother to an area behind James Barnes Cannery. He was seen leading them toward a small steel bridge over a drain, where he allegedly committed the offence. The victim’s aunt, concerned after the children failed to return home, went searching for them and interrupted the act. The child later complained of pain, prompting her mother to take her to Modilon General Hospital for medical attention. A formal complaint was then filed at Town Police Station, leading to the suspect’s arrest. Madang Provincial Police Commander, Acting Superintendent Robert Baim, confirmed that the suspect has been charged under Section 229B (1)(a) of the Sexual Offences and Crimes Against Children Act 2002. He remains in police custody at Jomba Police Station and is expected to appear in court soon. Police are urging the public to be vigilant and report any suspicious activities involving children to authorities immediately.

The Lae City Authority (LCA) has taken over management of Sir Ignatius Kilage Stadium from the National Sports Foundation and committed K30 million to a major renovation of the aging facility. Lae MP John Rosso said the stadium had been neglected for years, despite serving a large number of athletes and sports enthusiasts. “It has been run down for a long time.” “It was under the National Sports Foundation, but no attention has been given to it. It sits in the middle of Lae, with a lot of sportspeople using it, but the tracks had become dangerous.” The stadium, which houses the country’s national athletics track and a swimming pool, is set for a complete overhaul. Rosso said LCA’s investment aims to improve infrastructure and restore the stadium to a standard suitable for national events. “We have taken over management rights from the National Sports Foundation and have just invested in infrastructure construction.” “The full renovation will cost us about K30 million.” Rosso said the upgrades would benefit both the local community and national sports competitions. “The stadium will not only be for the people of Lae but will also allow us to host national athletics events.” “Our children will have access to a proper athletics field and a functioning swimming pool.” The first phase of the renovations is scheduled for completion by September 2025, aligning with Papua New Guinea’s 50th anniversary celebrations. “I would like to give that as a present—a newly renovated stadium to the people of Lae.” The redevelopment is expected to enhance sporting opportunities and provide a much-needed upgrade to one of the country’s key sports facilities.

Madang Provincial Police Commander, Acting Superintendent Robert Baim, has commended AR Pacific Ltd, the Madang Provincial Government, and the Provincial Administration for their support in improving police infrastructure. Baim acknowledged AR Pacific Ltd for constructing a new ten-man barracks to address the accommodation needs of single police officers. He described the facility as a significant upgrade from existing dilapidated housing. He also noted ongoing efforts by the provincial government to strengthen law enforcement, including the procurement of new police vehicles and the planned development of Kusbau barracks. Baim thanked Governor Ramsey Pariwa and the Provincial Administrator for their logistical support, urging police officers to value and maintain the resources provided. He emphasized that law and order is a shared responsibility and called for continued community cooperation.

Member for Wau-Waria district in Morobe province, Marsh Narewec, has stated that he now aims to prioritize education and employment as key drivers of change in his district, stressing that they are crucial to tackling poverty and improving law and order. He stated that his goal as an elected leader is to move people from being uneducated to educated and from unemployed to employed whilst underscoring the importance of these sectors in shaping the future of the district. As part of his commitment, Narewec launched the Wau-Waria District Tertiary Students Scholarship Subsidy (TSSS) Scheme; a program aimed at reducing the financial burden on students seeking higher education. “This initiative ensures that school fees will not hinder students who have the potential to pursue tertiary education.” The TSSS Scheme is expected to play a pivotal role in empowering students and contributing to the overall development of the Wau-Waria region.

Residents of Ward 11 in Watut LLG, Bulolo District, have received a boost to their community activities with a new set of musical instruments, courtesy of Watut LLG President, Waka Daimon. The instruments, valued at K30,000, were funded through the Ward Project Development program and will be managed by Loplam Parish of ELC Mumeng District. They will be used for church services, youth engagement programs, and community gatherings, offering a positive outlet for young people and promoting social unity. President Daimon emphasized that the initiative aims to keep youths actively involved in productive activities, reducing the risk of them engaging in negative behaviors. Ward 11 Councilor, Steven Yawing, and Loplam Parish Chairman, Yasasa Ngasigom, expressed their gratitude, highlighting the impact the instruments will have in fostering talent, strengthening faith, and bringing the community together.

A total of 227 students have secured financial support under the Wau-Waria District Tertiary Students Scholarship (WWDTSS) for 2025, with K869,695 allocated to cover tuition fees. The district administration received 298 applications—204 from new students and 94 from continuing students. After the screening process on February 3-4, the final number of recipients was 133 new intakes and 94 continuing students. Wau-Waria MP Marsh Narewec assured that payments are being processed, with BSP transactions completed, while payments to other banks will follow next week. “This scholarship is an important investment in our students’ futures. We are committed to supporting them in achieving their academic goals,” Narewec said. However, the process encountered several challenges, including technical issues with online applications, misplaced documents, and network disruptions that prevented some students from submitting their applications. Additionally, the number of continuing students who applied was lower than anticipated. The district administration is currently finalizing institution letters and bank receipts for student registration. Schools in Lae will receive theirs today, while those outside Lae will receive them on Monday.

Assistant Commissioner of Police for Northern Command, Peter Guinness, has raised alarm over the escalating security risks along the Sepik River, describing the border zone as an open “free-for-all” with no meaningful control over movement between Papua New Guinea (PNG) and Indonesia. “There’s no oversight. People are crossing in and out without any regulation,” Guinness stated, likening the situation to animals moving across the border. He pointed out that border stations remain operational but are largely ignored, allowing unchecked passage between the two nations. Guinness emphasized that a lack of effective monitoring and insufficient personnel are major factors behind the vulnerability of the border. The majority of crossings are made by boat, with travelers paying up to K600 for a ride from Wewak to Bogia, covering the route via the Sepik and Ramu rivers in just a few hours. The Sepik River, with its intricate network of mangrove-lined waterways leading to Bogia, is another gap in security. “There’s no substantial control in these areas. To strengthen security, we need skilled, well-positioned personnel in places like Bogia,” Guinness said. In addition to boosting physical presence, Guinness called on the government to advance technology in border security. He pointed out the nation’s struggle to combat identity fraud and illegal crossings due to limited ICT resources. “Our ICT infrastructure is not robust enough to deal with threats like cybercrime or fraudulent digital activities,” he noted. “The government must address these gaps.” Guinness also advocated for more stringent regulations in telecommunications, proposing that mobile phone buyers’ identities—such as biometric data and phone numbers—be registered to aid in criminal investigations. He voiced concerns over delays caused by the visa process and urged telecommunications companies to collaborate more closely with law enforcement to ensure public safety. “The government needs to enforce stricter regulations on telecom companies to prioritize national security,” he stressed.