A 27-year-old man has been apprehended by Madang police after issuing death threats to Madang Governor Ramcy Pariwa and Acting Provincial Administrator Daniel Aloi through a social media post that went viral. The post, which surfaced on the Madang Town Updates page on March 17, 2025, featured images of semi-automatic rifles and a warning to the officials, threatening them with violence should they take office. The post, originating from Ward 09 in the Madang Local Level Government area, rapidly gained traction on social media, raising alarm across the province. Accompanying the threat were photographs of weapons allegedly connected to ongoing tribal conflicts in the Highlands. Madang Provincial Police Commander, Acting Superintendent Robert Baim, characterized the incident as a severe threat to both local and national security. “This is a serious matter that not only jeopardizes the safety of our provincial leaders but also destabilizes the peace of Madang Province. We are handling this case with the highest priority,” Acting Superintendent Baim stated. PPC Baim also called for caution in social media use. “I urge everyone to act responsibly when posting on social media. There are laws in place to govern what we share online. We should aim to spread information that benefits the community. Such threats will not be tolerated, and the person responsible will face strict consequences,” he added. The individual behind the post, Mark Gasap, a resident of Wabag District in Enga Province, was arrested by the Madang Transnational Crime Unit (TCU) and National Criminal Intelligence Unit (NCIU) on the morning of March 18, 2025. Gasap was taken into custody at approximately 5:30 AM at his residence in Saicak Simbu Lodge, Madang. Gasap faces charges under the Cyber Crime Act and the Counter Terrorism Act, as his actions are considered genuine and immediate threats. The authorities have emphasized the gravity of the situation, especially following recent administrative changes in the province. A court ruling on March 7, 2025, saw Mr. Aloi assume the role of acting Provincial Administrator, which has reportedly sparked some local tensions. “While the shift in administration may have caused unrest, there is no room for violent threats in our country. We will ensure the law is enforced, and those who threaten our leaders or the safety of our people will face the full legal consequences,” said Baim. The arrest is viewed as a prompt and necessary response to what is regarded as a threat to national security. Gasap remains in custody, awaiting further legal proceedings. As the investigation continues, local authorities urge the public to stay calm and report any suspicious activities to the police.