A 35-year old man from the Hela Province has recently been arrested and charged by the police in Port Moresby for committing cyber-crimes against the Hela Governor, Philip Undialu. The suspect, Rickson Apa of Pureni village in the Hela Province, has been accused of producing, uploading and circulating multiple video, audio and text messages in which he made defamatory comments against Governor Undialu regarding multiple issues. Apa’s videos, audios and text messages unfortunately, quickly went viral on various social media platforms which prompted Governor Undialu to file a complaint with the Cyber Crimes unit in Port Moresby. According to the media statement, Apa had previously been arrested for a similar offense against the Governor in 2020, but had absconded from court after being released on bail while a warrant of arrest was issued by the committal court consequently. Apa had allegedly reoffended the Governor by posting more derogatory videos and audios against him while on the run and appears to be a serial offender. Members of the Cyber Crimes unit arrested Apa in Gordon on Sunday and charged him for his alleged crimes but he was subsequently released on a K3000 police bail. Police further warned Rickson Apa that his case would follow appropriate legal channels and that they expect the accused to cooperate fully with the police investigation and through the subsequent legal proceedings. Furthermore, police whilst arresting and charging him, issued a warning against citizens on the importance of upholding the rule of law and protecting individuals from cyber harassment. “The Public should exercise responsible behavior online and to respect the privacy and reputation of others.” “Defamatory publications without evidence, cyber bullying and cyber harassments are punishable offence with severe penalties.”