A police officer in Madang has been charged with the murder of his 22-year-old wife, Christel Salengwan, following an alleged domestic violence incident at their home in Sagalau, just outside Madang town. Madang Acting Provincial Police Commander, Superintendent Robert Baim, confirmed the arrest and said the officer has been suspended from duty. “No one is above the law,” Baim stated. “I will not tolerate any form of compensation when a life is lost.” The officer, who is serving under the Royal Papua New Guinea Constabulary, has appeared before the National Court and was released on bail as police investigations continue. According to Christel’s family, she had left the house days earlier after an argument and stayed with relatives. She returned to Sagalau on Tuesday but avoided the house, spending the night at a relative’s place. She was attacked the following morning when she went back to the home. Her sister, Elred Salengwan, said neighbors tried to intervene but were reportedly threatened by the officer. Christel was rushed to the hospital but died from her injuries. The couple shared a one-year-old son. Local MP Bryan Kramer said he has taken the matter up with the Police Commissioner and has called for a full investigation. The incident has sparked renewed concern over domestic violence in PNG and the need for stronger protections for women. Police say they will ensure due process is followed.

Madang Provincial Police Commander, Acting Superintendent Robert Baim, has publicly condemned recent false media reports alleging that a helicopter was hijacked during the polling process in the Usino-Bundi by-election. He emphasizes that such misinformation is not only inaccurate but also damaging to Papua New Guinea’s international reputation. “Such unconfirmed reports must cease immediately. Journalists and media outlets have a responsibility to verify information before publishing. False reports undermine our nation’s integrity and credibility,” said Acting Superintendent Baim. “Reporters must be accountable. Our country’s image depends on truthful and responsible journalism.” Baim clarified that the helicopter was not hijacked. It landed safely with election officials onboard, but after offloading the ballot boxes and personnel, the aircraft was involved in an incident where the polling team was targeted by armed individuals. “The helicopter landed at Kembeni in Ward 19, approximately five kilometres from the intended drop-off point in Yaiyo village, Ward 20. The reasons for this landing are still under investigation,” Baim explained. “Shortly after landing, a group of armed men, believed to be supporters of a candidate, intercepted the polling team. They forced the Presiding Officer, Nathan Tawi, to sign ballot papers. One official managed to escape and contacted police in Kabiufa, Eastern Highlands.” Police responded swiftly. Mobile Squad 13 and the SRU Quick Reaction Force (QRF) successfully rescued the remaining polling officials. However, the auxiliary police officer involved, and the ballot materials remain missing. “Nine suspects have been apprehended and are currently in custody here in Madang, undergoing processing by our Investigative Taskforce,” Baim confirmed. “We are committed to maintaining law and order and will pursue anyone attempting to disrupt the electoral process.” He also thanked Chief Inspector Henry Ereman, Group Command Northern Mobile Group and the QRF team for their prompt and professional response, emphasizing that this incident serves as a warning to those who seek to undermine democratic processes. “I call on all candidates and supporters to uphold the integrity of this election. Respect the process, maintain peace, and keep your supporters calm. Our police force is prepared to respond at any moment,” Baim urged. Police continue their investigation and appeal to the public for any information that may assist in recovering the missing ballot materials and officer.

It was a brief but meaningful encounter along the Highlands Highway when two teams with very different missions crossed paths—one walking to honour the country, the other chasing victory on the field. As the PNG Defence Force (PNGDF) soldiers continued their Independence Walk from Mutzing Station on Day 8, they were met by the Snax Tigers rugby league team, who were making their way to Goroka for Sunday’s game. The Tigers didn’t just pass by—they stopped and shared a gesture of support, handing out biscuits to the soldiers before continuing on their journey. Captain Kispe Nerre, who leads the walking team, was grateful. “It might seem small, but gestures like this lift our spirits. We thank the Snax Tigers for stopping by and wish them the best in their game against the Goroka Lahanis,” he said. The PNGDF Independence Walk is a patriotic trek to Port Moresby, honouring 50 years of the Force’s service and sacrifice.

The United States Navy is working with the Papua New Guinea Defence Force (PNGDF) at Lae’s Igam Barracks as part of the Pacific Partnership 2025 mission, in a renewed display of military cooperation and regional support. Nearly 500 U.S. personnel are in the country for the program, led by mission commander Lieutenant Drew Howard, working alongside Australian and South Korean forces. [caption id="attachment_68685" align="aligncenter" width="1920"] US Navy Lieutenant Drew Howard[/caption] The partnership focuses on humanitarian assistance, health services, disaster response, and building capacity within PNG’s military systems. “In Lae, we’re working closely with PNG Defence Force doctors and dentists through community health initiatives at Igam Barracks,” said Lt. Howard. “Our goal is to build capacity and strengthen existing systems through practical training and collaboration.” Now in its 21st year, Pacific Partnership is the largest annual multinational humanitarian mission in the Indo-Pacific. This year’s program includes medical outreach, engineering works, and joint military health training. Aside from health initiatives, the mission also supports small-scale infrastructure renovations and community engagement through cultural exchange activities. Lt. Howard emphasized the U.S. commitment to regional security and cooperation: “The Pacific Ocean is shared by all of us—PNG, Australia, Korea, and the U.S. We’re all stakeholders in this region.” The work at Igam highlights a growing defense relationship between PNG and the U.S., as America increases its strategic presence in the Pacific.

Police in Madang have arrested Usino-Bundi by-election candidate Mr. Manu Yafi Kuna for attacking another candidate’s team on Wednesday night. Kuna, from the People’s Transformation Party, and his supporters chased a car near the Surinam Oil Palm area. Inside the car were PANGU Party staff, including Jojolala Simpson, her sick two-year-old child, and two others. Witnesses said Kuna’s group tried to attack them with bush knives, breaking the car’s side mirror and pulling at the doors. One man tried to slash the driver. Police later arrested Kuna at his campaign house and took him to Madang. His younger brother, also involved, is being held at Ramu Police Station. Madang Police Chief, Acting Superintendent Robert Baim, warned that election violence will not be tolerated.

Morobe Alluvial Mining Limited (MAML) has been officially relaunched, marking a new chapter in the province’s mining industry under fresh leadership and a key partnership with a Chinese contractor. This week, MAML signed an agreement with the Chinese company, supported by the Morobe Provincial Government, to restart alluvial gold mining operations in the province. After years of dormancy, the initiative brings renewed hope for local landowners and communities. Peter Seski, Executive Chairman of MAML, stated, “This achievement comes from the efforts of the new management. It’s about returning to the roots of Morobe Alluvial Mining and partnering with a Chinese company and the provincial government to relaunch the operation.” The partnership will see the introduction of advanced mining equipment and skilled labour to boost gold mining efficiency. Surveys and site preparations are expected to begin in selected areas. Governor Luther Wenge expressed his support for the venture, stating that it aligns with the provincial goal of empowering local communities. “This is about more than just gold mining—it’s about our people taking control and reaping the benefits of their own resources,” he said. With the relaunch of MAML, the provincial government aims to create jobs, boost local incomes, and support sustainable development for the people of Morobe province.

The PNG Defence Force (PNGDF) Unity Walk has reached Mutzing in Morobe province on Day 7 of the journey, covering 30 kilometres from Waterise. The Igam Team was warmly welcomed by the people of Markham and the members are now resting at Markham Valley Secondary School. “This is more than a walk. It’s a way for us to reconnect with our people and renew our duty to the nation,” said Captain Nerre Kispe, who is coordinating the walk. The walk, part of Exercise Antap Long, marks 50 years of PNGDF service and celebrates its role in keeping the country safe. Locals cheered on the team as they passed through villages, showing strong support for the Defence Force’s message of unity and peace. The team will continue their walk further into the Highlands in the coming days.

A leading agriculture and manufacturing firm in Madang has stepped forward to help mark Papua New Guinea’s 50th year of independence. Carpenters Agriculture & Manufacturing Ltd has become a Silver Sponsor of the province’s Golden Jubilee, contributing K20,000 worth of goods to support the event. The donation, given to the Provincial Events Committee, will assist with preparations – especially in supporting the cultural groups who will take part in the anniversary shows and parades. Company Operations Manager Damith Fernando said Carpenters was proud to be involved. “It’s a national milestone, and we’re glad to be part of it,” he said. “Our company has shared in PNG’s journey for nearly four decades, so this is our way of saying thank you and helping celebrate.” Organizers of the celebrations said the support will boost participation and ease some of the costs of hosting such a large event. The Madang Golden Jubilee will see a week of activities involving community groups, students, artists and leaders, all celebrating 50 years of growth, culture and nationhood. With corporate partners now joining in, the Events Committee said plans are progressing well, and the province is gearing up for a vibrant and meaningful celebration.

A new kind of teacher training is taking place at Waritzian Primary School in Markham District, Morobe Province. For the first time, teachers and staff are learning how to plan and prepare for school development by using simple tools and teamwork. The training is part of the 2025 school-based in-service program. Vanessa, one of the facilitators, said it’s about more than just skills. “We want the school to look smart and ready. That’s why we are building a grandstand and decorating the stage,” she said. The training uses everyday items like laplaps, staples, rubber bands, pins, and flowers. Teachers are using them to make the school look good and prepare for events. Teacher in Charge, Noami Waenesai, said, “This training helps our teachers think differently. We can improve the school even without big funding.” Vanessa added that it was her first time helping with a school-based training at Waritzian. “I’m working with Teacher Mary. It’s exciting to be part of something new and useful,” she said. The school sees this training as the start of a better learning space for students and staff. It also brings teachers closer as they work together. Staff hope other schools in the Markham area will start their own trainings like this. It’s a chance to grow ideas and share skills that can improve schools using what’s already around them.

Lieutenant Colonel Velmoore Kagena, Commanding Officer (CO) of the Engineer Battalion, has rejoined his troops on the National Unity Walk from Madang to Lae and will resume the walk starting on Day 6 of the journey. Major Alex Hengene, the Operations Officer, has been walking with the team from the beginning and is expected to complete the full distance. Their presence has boosted morale among the group. One of the toughest stretches so far was the 28-kilometre climb from Tapo Mountain to Usino Junction. The team completed the challenging route in just seven hours, with many saying prayer and teamwork helped them through. A female soldier is also walking with the team, serving as both participant and medic. She has been providing first aid using limited supplies. As they pass through communities, the soldiers are speaking to locals and visiting schools to spread messages about national unity ahead of Papua New Guinea’s 50th Independence Anniversary. They’re also encouraging young people to focus on education and respect their families and teachers. Today, the group is expected to arrive at Waterise. From there, they will walk the remaining 150 kilometres along the Highlands Highway back to Lae.

The Morobe Provincial Election Office has confirmed that the tally board for the Kabwum Open by-election is being set up at the Sir Ignatius Kilage Stadium in Lae. Election Manager Simon Soheke said polling is progressing well across the electorate with no major issues reported so far. He said polling teams in Kabwum are continuing their work, and two Mobile Squad units have been deployed to Indagen in Komba LLG to support security. Mr Soheke said, “Polling is running smoothly. There have been no disturbances and everything is on track.” Extraction of polling teams is expected to start on Wednesday, 23 July, with some teams continuing polling into Tuesday and Wednesday due to minor schedule changes. Polling teams from the YUS LLG are expected to be extracted on Thursday, 24 July. Soheke assured the public that the election team is doing its best to ensure a fair and peaceful by-election and that all ballot boxes will be returned to Lae safely. Vote counting will take place at the Sir Ignatius Kilage Stadium once all ballot boxes arrive from Kabwum. Authorities are continuing to monitor the process closely to ensure transparency and fairness throughout. Counting for the Kabwum by-election is set to begin early next week in Lae, according to Morobe Election Manager Simon Soheke. He said polling is complete, ballot boxes are secured, and the team is ready to begin once the boxing tournament at the stadium ends. “All four LLGs have finished polling and we’re planning to start counting on Monday or Tuesday,” he said. Mr Soheke said 32 presiding officers from Kabwum have joined the counting team, and they aim to finish by August 7. He also confirmed that police will remain in Kabwum after the count as a safety measure, although no major issues have been reported so far.

As Papua New Guinea come together today to honour its fallen heroes on National Remembrance Day, Madang Provincial Police Commander Acting Superintendent Robert Baim delivered a deeply personal message about sacrifice, service, and unity. Baim, whose late father fought during World War II, said the day serves as a powerful reminder of the price paid for the freedom Papua New Guineans enjoy today. “I reflected on how far our nation has come,” he said. “My father once shared stories about standing alongside Allied forces on the shores of Morobe and Madang, they fought so we could live in peace.” The commander also shared memories from his own years of service, particularly during the Bougainville crisis. “I took part in efforts to bring peace back to our land, we lost many along the way, but it was for the good of the nation.” “I didn’t do it for personal gain — it was out of love for this country and its people.” Baim said his experiences have strengthened his commitment to serve without fear or favour. “I believe in one people, one nation. That’s what drives me.” He closed his statement by honouring all fallen heroes and his late father, stating: "You shall not grow old, till we meet again on that golden morning when the trumpet sounds." “Today, we remember and salute all who sacrificed for our country.”