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.…
Author: Martha LOUIS
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…
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…
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. 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.…
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…
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…
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.…
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.…
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…
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…