PNG Haus Bung

The Metropolitan Superintendent for the National Capital District (NCD) has commended the swift and proactive response of his Superintendent Operations and duty members following the arrest and charging of 52 individuals linked to an unlawful protest and public intimidation incident in Hohola on Monday, 31 August 2026.The group—comprising 22 males and 30 females and residing at a settlement in Hohola—gathered with their faces clad in mud and armed with offensive weapons, including bush knives, iron bars, and sticks. The crowd marched from Hohola to the Pacific Betting Shop to demand compensation following the death of a relative near the venue.Their public display of offensive weapons, mud-clad faces, and aggressive chanting created widespread panic, threatening public safety and terrifying residents, business owners, and passersby in the area.Frontline police units swiftly intercepted the gathering, contained the situation without further escalation, and processed all 52 suspects.Summary of Police Action and Court Orders:Charges Laid: All 52 individuals have been formally charged with Public Nuisance Possession of Offensive Weapons.Bail Status: Police bail was strictly refused for all accused persons.Court Remand: The Boroko District Court ordered that all 52 suspects be remanded at Bomana Prison.Next Court Appearance: The matter is set to return to court on 7 September 2026.Metropolitan Superintendent praised the operational teams for their swift tactical intervention, emphasizing that street intimidation and vigilante mob tactics have no place in Port Moresby."I commend our Superintendent Operations and all responding members for their firm, proactive stance in restoring order. Let this serve as a stern warning: Police will not tolerate, compromise with, or yield to any individuals or groups who think they can use bully tactics, weapons, and public fear for personal gain or illegal demands.""The days of mob intimidation on our capital's streets STOP NOW! under our Divisional Command Management. We stand firm on maintaining public order, protecting our citizens, and enforcing the rule of law without fear or favour."The Metropolitan Command reassures the public and business sector in Hohola and across NCD that the Sentinel high-visibility police operations will continue to ensure total public safety and street control.

The Metropolitan Superintendent for the National Capital District (NCD) has issued an urgent appeal for calm following a critical police-involved shooting at Koki Vegetable Market, while delivering a stern warning that illegal retaliatory violence and destruction of public infrastructure will be met with full force.On Saturday 05th September 2026, at about 0900hrs police officers responded to an urgent distress call regarding ongoing public harassment and intimidation inside the Koki Vegetable Market. Upon arriving at the scene, responding officers were confronted by a suspect armed with a knife who actively threatened personnel. During the confrontation, a firearm was discharged, resulting in fatal injuries to the suspect.Following the shooting, relatives of the deceased and associated groups retaliated by attacking and damaging the Koki Police Post. The group attempted to march onto the main public road to disrupt traffic and stage a protest, but were swiftly intercepted, contained, and dispersed by reinforcing police units.The Metropolitan Superintendent today met directly with community leaders from the Koki market settlement and representatives of the deceased’s family to address grievances and assure them of a transparent process:Internal Affairs Oversight: The Internal Affairs Directorate (IAD) and Homicide/CID will commence a full, independent investigation into the operational circumstances and shooting incident.Family Engagement: Command leadership assured the victim's family that the investigation will be conducted with complete neutrality and adherence to the law.Call for Cooperation: Community leaders were urged to maintain peace, prevent youth from engaging in further violence, and assist police investigators with eyewitness statements.Metropolitan Superintendent also highlighted the immediate Command Orders & Market Closure, stating that the Koki Vegetable Market will remain CLOSED UNTIL FURTHER NOTICE to allow police to maintain security, secure evidence, and prevent opportunistic opportunists from creating further civil unrest.Metropolitan Superintendent also emphasised zero tolerance for Retaliation; high-visibility foot and mobile patrols have been deployed throughout Moresby South to protect public infrastructure, business houses, and commuting citizens."We acknowledge the loss of life and the distress felt by the family and community. I have personally met with the leaders and relatives to assure them that a thorough, independent investigation is underway to determine the exact facts of the shooting.""However, I make it abundantly clear: we will NOT tolerate or compromise with any person, mob, or group attempting to take advantage of this tragic situation to cause violence, damage police property, or disturb the public peace""Attacking a police station and threatening public roads are criminal acts. Anyone engaging in further trouble will be met with the full force of the law, arrested and dealt with severely under the law."The Metropolitan Command urges all residents of Koki and surrounding areas to allow the official investigation to take its course and refrain from spreading unverified rumors on social media.

Southland's mayor says the tragedy in Nepal should prompt practical preparation for the threat of a tsunami at Piopiotahi /Milford Sound.The death toll from the devastating Himalayan glacial floods has crossed the grim 1000 mark. Nearly 4500 people are missing after the gigantic wave of freezing water, rocks and debris from a high-altitude glacial collapse roared downstream last week.Glaciers melting or falling, climate change, large scale erosion and the possibility of tsunamis are all factors in parts of New Zealand.A new report from Emergency Management Southland highlights the risks of a landslide down the cliffs surrounding the water at Milford Sound and then causing a tsunami.Large landslides had occurred in the past, and an Alpine Fault earthquake could trigger those in the future, the report said, "potentially creating tsunami that reach visitor and village areas within minutes".Problems identified included a very short response time and limited evacuation options.Mayor Rob Scott told Morning Report the tragedy in Nepal was an eye-opener for people in this country and a similar event in an area like Milford Sound could become the country's worst natural disaster."What attracts everybody there is the greatest risk."As soon as the Nepal flash floods occurred, Scott said he was among those realising how much of a wakeup call it was and it could easily be repeated here."It's trying to weigh up what we can actually do ... there is a likelihood it's going to happen and I guess we've got to look as a country as to what we can do to be the most prepared we can be."He didn't wish to catastrophise the risk, however, Milford Sound attracted 1 million visitors a year so at any given point in a day there could be 3500 people visiting.One possibility would be limiting the number of visitors to reduce the scale of any possible disaster.There wouldn't be much warning and even if an earthquake provided some clues it would still leave people with only two or three minutes to get to higher ground, Scott said."I think Usain Bolt would probably even struggle to get to higher ground in that short timeframe so the risk is real and I think we need to look at what practical things we can do to mitigate it."While practical advice could be given to residents, it was much harder trying to prepare visitors for such an emergency, Scott said.Milford Sound is part of the Department of Conservation's estate.However, emergency management falls to councils to fund, but Milford Sound was a nationally significant attraction, he said."This becomes a national responsibility rather than a local one to fund."He said someone at a high level needed to take ownership and responsibility for the risks."This whole 'it's not my responsibility, not my job' kind of thing isn't going to land here after the event."Scott said some of the funding could come from the International Visitor Levy and paying for some escape routes might need to be one priority."We need to look at whatever measures we can to minimise the harm from something that's just happened in Nepal."Source: RNZ

Bird strike caused a Qantas flight from Queenstown to be diverted to Christchurch on Saturday afternoon, the Civil Aviation Authority says.The Boeing 737-800 aircraft had just become airborne when the incident occurred.Witnesses reported hearing banging noises. Video footage on social media appeared to show flames coming from an engine.Nic Chamberlain was among those in Queenstown who saw flames and heard a series of loud noises."It was like just shoots of orange flames shooting out the back."You can tell it was coming out of the left engine," he told RNZ.There was a delay before the loud noises followed, he said."This was kind of like rapid succession boom, boom, boom, boom, boom, boom. And then it was loud enough that everyone kind of turned their heads and looked to see what the noise was," he said.Flight QF122 touched down safely at Christchurch Airport at about 5pm on Saturday. There were no reports of injuries.RNZ understands about 160 passengers were on board.A Qantas spokesperson said the incident was still under investigation."One of our flights to Sydney experienced a suspected engine issue after take-off from Queenstown this afternoon and the aircraft diverted to Christchurch."Our pilots are highly trained to manage situations like this and the aircraft landed safely."We know this would have been a distressing experience for passengers and will be contacting all customers to provide support," they said.Hato Hone St John said it was notified of a flight diversion at 4.25pm and multiple ambulance resources responded to Christchurch Airport as a standard procedure.A spokesperson said St John had not been required to assess or treat anyone, and all ambulance units had since been stood down.Fire and Emergency New Zealand records show an aircraft emergency was reported at Invercargill Airport at 4.12pm, with Invercargill and Kingswell crews attending.It is understood the flight was initially expected to divert to Invercargill before continuing to Christchurch.Queenstown Airport confirmed the flight was diverted to Christchurch soon after departing and said the airport remained operational.Source: RNZ

Police in Port Moresby have confirmed a fatal shooting incident at Koki, National Capital District, this morning following an alleged attack on police officers at the exit gate of the main Koki Vegetable Market.The deceased has been identified as Huluwin Ravu, a 25-year-old male and resident of the Wanigela Settlement at Koki.According to preliminary information, police officers were attending to an incident at the Koki market at approximately 9:00am when Ravu allegedly confronted and attempted to stab police officers with a kitchen knife.Police responded by discharging their firearms, resulting in Ravu sustaining gunshot wounds. The incident reportedly prevented further harm to three police personnel, including a First Constable, a Senior Constable and a Koki Base Community Policing officer. Ravu was then subsequently transported to Port Moresby General Hospital (PMGH), where he was pronounced dead.Police records indicate that the deceased had previously been associated with a number of alleged criminal matters and had been arrested on previous occasions.These matters included allegations of attempted murder, armed robbery, armed hold-ups, stealing, escaping from police custody and other serious offences.Police also allege that he had recently escaped from the Boroko Metropolitan Cell on 3 September 2026 and had subsequently been seen in possession of what was believed to be a factory-made pistol.Police further allege that Ravu was a person of interest in a number of other criminal investigations, including a serious sexual assault matter reported at Koki on 15 August 2026.The circumstances surrounding today's shooting will be subject to the appropriate police investigation, including examination of the scene and collection of relevant evidence.The body has been taken to Port Moresby General Hospital mortuary, while necessary police documentation and reports are being prepared.Police are urging members of the public who witnessed the incident or have relevant information to cooperate with investigators. Further information will be released when it becomes available and after the necessary investigations have been completed.In the meantime, Motorists are being urged to avoid the Badili-Koki Market area following the incident this morning.NCD Metropolitan Superintendent Warrick Simatab has confirmed police are aware of the situation and says officers are currently gathering information from the ground.Simatab is warning motorists travelling along the road to take extreme caution and avoid the area if possible until police provide further updates.He says police are yet to issue an official statement, but a report is expected once officers on the ground provide a full briefing. Motorists are advised to consider alternative routes and stay alert as police monitor the situation.Attempts to get full and clear updates from the Badili Police station commander by PNG Haus Bung were unsuccessful.

IBS University has announced Daltron PNG Limited as the Gold Sponsor of its flagship international research conference, PNG Global Connect 2027.The conference will be held on March 11–12, 2027, at APEC Haus in Port Moresby under the theme “Transforming Futures through Innovation, Artificial Intelligence, Sustainable Development and Inclusive Growth.”The event is expected to bring together more than 200 delegates, including academics, researchers, business leaders, policymakers, entrepreneurs, development partners and postgraduate students from Papua New Guinea and overseas.Conference Secretariat representative Dr. Durga Prasad Repakula said Daltron’s support aligns with IBS University’s vision of promoting education, research, innovation and nation-building.“IBS University is delighted to welcome Daltron PNG as a Gold Sponsor.”He said Daltron’s role as an IT solutions provider makes the company a valuable partner for a conference focused on technology, innovation, and future development.Daltron Assistant General Manager for the South Pacific Region, M. Shehan Zahir, said the company viewed its sponsorship as an investment in Papua New Guinea’s people and future.“Daltron is proud to be the Gold Sponsor of PNG Global Connect 2027. We see this partnership as much more than supporting an international conference—it is an investment in Papua New Guinea’s people, ideas, and future.”He said innovation, artificial intelligence, digital transformation, and sustainable development would play an important role in determining how PNG grows and competes globally.Mr. Zahir added that Daltron was pleased to work alongside IBS University to create opportunities for knowledge-sharing, industry collaboration and the development of future leaders, researchers and technology professionals.The two-day conference will feature research presentations, panel discussions, industry showcases, networking and collaboration opportunities, as well as a dedicated Young Researchers Forum for emerging scholars and future research leaders.The conference will focus on four major research areas:Innovation, Artificial Intelligence and Digital TransformationSustainable Development, Climate Resilience and Inclusive CommunitiesInclusive Growth, Leadership, Governance, Trade and InvestmentEducation Transformation, Human Capital and the Future of WorkIBS University said all papers submitted to the conference will undergo a double-blind peer-review process.Accepted papers will be published in the conference on proceedings with an ISBN, while selected papers may be considered for publication in the IBSU Journal of Business and Research, subject to the journal’s independent editorial and peer-review requirements.IBS University management, including the Vice Chancellor and Pro Vice Chancellors, welcomed the partnership and thanked Daltron PNG Limited for its support of the conference.The university said PNG Global Connect 2027 is expected to provide a platform for researchers, industry and policymakers to exchange ideas and explore practical responses to emerging economic, technological and social challenges facing Papua New Guinea and the wider region.

Westpac PNG has partnered with 2025 Westpac Outstanding Women Awards (WOWA) Overall Winner Anne-Shirley Korave and her organisation Queenpads to donate 80 reusable menstrual hygiene packs to Haus Ruth, a safe house in Port Moresby supporting survivors of gender-based violence and their children.The donation was delivered as part of a community support session at Haus Ruth, including an education session led by Anne-Shirley with survivors and staff, the handover of Queenpads packs, and a practical financial literacy session delivered by Westpac PNG.Haus Ruth, run by City Mission PNG, provides meals, accommodation and essential support for survivors of gender-based violence and their children. The donation recognises that access to menstrual hygiene products is a practical need that can affect dignity, confidence, wellbeing and participation in daily life. Westpac PNG Chief Executive Andrew Cairns said the initiative reflected the purpose of the WOW Awards by extending support beyond recognition and into practical community action.“The WOW Awards are about backing women who are already making a difference in their communities,” Mr. Cairns said. “Through this donation to Haus Ruth, we are proud to support Anne-Shirley and Queenpads in responding to a real community need. This initiative brings together practical support, education and financial literacy in a way that recognises the dignity and wellbeing of women and girls.”Anne-Shirley Korave, 2025 WOWA Overall Winner and founder of Queenpads, said improving access to menstrual hygiene products was an important part of supporting women and girls.“When women and girls have access to the products and support they need, it helps protect dignity, build confidence and support wellbeing,” Ms. Korave said.“We are grateful to partner with Westpac PNG to provide these packs to Haus Ruth and to spend time with survivors and staff through an education session that responds to a practical need.”As part of the visit, Westpac PNG also delivered practical free financial literacy training for Haus Ruth staff and survivors, supporting financial confidence and capability alongside health and wellbeing outcomes.Through the WOW Awards and partnerships with women-led organisations like Queenpads, Westpac PNG continues to champion women leaders and contribute to practical initiatives that creates positive social impacts

Young athletes were encouraged to embrace discipline, respect and personal growth as part of their sporting journey, as the National Youth Development Authority (NYDA) lent its voice to the NGCB–Kickboxing Last Man Standing tournament, held at the Taurama Aquatic Centre on Sunday.NYDA says platforms like this are central to its efforts to reach and engage disengaged youths nationwide.The event, contested as Semi-Final Heat #4 of the tournament and run from 9:00am to 5:00pm, was presented by the PNG Kickboxing Federation (PNGKBF), a partner of NYDA, and brought together athletes, coaches and supporters in a competitive environment that organisers say is as much about character as it is about competition.In the absence of NYDA Director General Mr. Joe Itaki, Principal Legal Officer, Ms. Joyce Mai addressed athletes and officials at the venue, underscoring the role sport can play in engaging and developing Papua New Guinean youths.Drawing on the teaching of self-control and discipline found in 1 Corinthians 9, Ms. Mai's opening remarks reminded competitors that the same restraint and focus required in the ring carry over into everyday life.Athletes were encouraged to compete with their heart, give their best, and show respect for their opponents.The message reinforced that sporting achievement is measured by more than winning — it is also about building character, discipline, resilience, confidence and respect, qualities NYDA says help young people become positive contributors to their families, communities and the nation.NYDA's presence at the tournament reflects the Authority's implementation of the National Youth Engagement Strategy (NYES) 2025–2029, which provides a national framework for engaging disengaged youths and connecting them with opportunities that support their personal, social and economic development.Sport also sits squarely within the National Youth Policy 2020–2030, which identifies Health, Sports and Culture as one of its four key result areas, alongside Education and Employment, Community and Environment, and Governance and Institutional Development.For NYDA, platforms such as the NGCB–Kickboxing Last Man Standing tournament offer a practical, ground-level way to engage disengaged youths, encourage positive participation and strengthen the wider youth development agenda across Papua New Guinea.

His Excellency Grand Chief Sir Bob Dadae, Governor-General of Papua New Guinea and representative of His Majesty King Charles III, presented the 50th Anniversary King’s Medal to Nasfund Chief Executive Officer Mr. Rajeev Sharma at the Government House.In his remarks during the presentation ceremony, His Excellency acknowledged Mr. Sharma's contribution to Papua New Guinea and thanked him for the important role he continues to play in advancing retirement security and strengthening confidence in the country's superannuation industry.Mr. Sharma received the King's Medal in recognition of his outstanding service in finance, accounting and corporate leadership in Papua New Guinea over the past 25 years.Accepting the award, Mr. Sharma expressed his gratitude to the people of Papua New Guinea and dedicated the recognition to his family and the staff of Nasfund."I want to say thank you to the people of Papua New Guinea for accepting us in PNG.I am very honoured and humbled to receive this award on behalf of my wife and children. This award is not only for me but for all the Nasfund staff who work tirelessly with me. I really appreciate this," Mr. Sharma said.The commemorative medal was approved by His Majesty King Charles III, King of Papua New Guinea, as part of Papua New Guinea's 50th Independence Anniversary celebrations. The King's Medal recognises Papua New Guineans and others who have made significant contributions to the nation's development over the past five decades.Following the presentation, National Superannuation Fund (Nasfund) Chairman Christopher Elphick extended his congratulations to Mr Sharma on receiving the distinguished national honour."It is a proud moment for Nasfund to see our CEO receive such a distinguished national honor through the Governor-General, His Excellency Grand Chief Sir Bob Dadae, on behalf of His Majesty King Charles III," Mr. Elphick said."Rajeev's commitment to strengthening Papua New Guinea's superannuation sector, promoting sound governance, and delivering long-term value for our members has made a lasting impact. This recognition reflects not only his professional achievements, but also his unwavering dedication to serving the people of Papua New Guinea and the wider Pacific region."Mr. Elphick said Mr. Sharma's leadership has helped position Nasfund as one of the country's most respected and trusted financial institutions. On behalf of the Board, management, and staff, Mr. Elphick thanked Mr. Sharma for his exemplary leadership, dedication, and service.

The Deputy Commissioner of Police, Samson Kua, has been arrested and charged by the Independent Commission Against Corruption (ICAC).Kua was arrested and charged yesterday with one count of Abuse of Office and nine counts of Misappropriation, following an investigation into the alleged misuse of the Royal Papua New Guinea travel account funds.The Independent Commission Against Corruption (ICAC) has arrested and charged Deputy Commissioner of Police, Samson Kua yesterday, with one count of Abuse of Office and nine counts of misappropriation, following an investigation into the alleged misuse of RPNGC account funds. It was alleged that between September 2024 and March 2025, Mr. Kua used RPNGC Travel accounts for his family’s personal domestic travel, amounting to approximately K14, 692.50.The matter was referred to ICAC by the Police Commissioner, as required under section 45 of the Organic Law on the Independent Commission Against Corruption (OLICAC).Mr. Kua was produced before the Waigani Magistrates Court on the afternoon of 3rd September 2026 and was released on a K3, 000 bail, with two sureties of K500 each. The matter has been adjourned for mention on the 11th of September 2026.ICAC acknowledges the cooperation of the Office of the Police Commissioner and the RPNGC throughout the investigation.

For the next five years, through to 2030, the Independent Consumer and Competition Commission (ICCC) will regulate its mandate according to its newly launched Cooperate Plan, which was officially launched by Minister for Rural and Economic Joseph Lelang, at the APEC Haus on August 28th.Alongside the launch was the unveiling of the refreshed logo identity and the upgraded website in setting out its strategic direction for strengthening consumer protection, promoting fair competition and supporting a more competitive, productive and efficient economy in the country.The cooperate plan explains clearly what the ICCC wants for the next five years with its mandate and vision.ICCC Commissioner and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Mr. Roy Daggy said the Corporate Plan would guide the commission’s work over the next five years by setting out what it aims to achieve, how it will deliver its mandate and why its work matters to Papua New Guineans.The ICCC’s mandate includes protecting consumers, ensuring markets are fair and competitive, and regulating industries where necessary.Mr. Daggy said the commission’s responsibilities affect families, businesses and communities across the country, adding that the Corporate Plan would guide the ICCC in using its values of independence, expertise and integrity to deliver outcomes for consumers and the wider economy.The commission’s vision is to promote the welfare of Papua New Guineans by ensuring competitive markets, protecting consumers, and regulating industries fairly and efficiently.Its mission is linked to key national development priorities, including the Medium-Term Development Plan IV 2024-2027, the Development Strategic Plan 2020-2030, and PNG Vision 2050.The Corporate Plan is built around four main goals.The first is to protect consumers’ rights by expanding enforcement, improving complaint handling, and ensuring product safety.The second is to ensure markets remain competitive by reviewing mergers, tackling cartel behaviour and addressing the abuse of market power.The third is to regulate industries and prices where necessary to ensure essential goods and services remain affordable and reliable.The fourth is to strengthen the ICCC as an independent and expert regulator while maintaining high levels of integrity, transparency and accountability and building trust among stakeholders.Mr. Daggy said the four goals are supported by specific strategies and action plans intended to translate the commission’s priorities into practical activities.One of the strategies is to expand the ICCC’s presence across all provinces through partnerships with provincial governments.Mr. Daggy said the commission is also seeking to strengthen prosecutions against unfair traders and develop stronger competition law expertise.Furthermore, the commission will also modernize its systems, improve transparency and strengthen inclusivity, particularly for women, disadvantaged groups and rural communities.Mr. Daggy said the Corporate Plan was not simply a policy document, but a strategy focused on improving the welfare of consumers and supporting the wider economy.He added that the ICCC would make decisions based on evidence, research and data rather than pressure, while assuring that the commission would consider the views of stakeholders in its decision making and ensure consumers’ welfare remains a priority.The Corporate Plan is supported by technical assistance from the Private Sector Development Initiative through the Asian Development Bank, with backing from the Australian Government’s Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) and the New Zealand Government through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade (MFAT).

The District Court dismissed all criminal charges against former Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the National Capital District Provincial Health Authority (NCDPHA), Dr. Steven Yennie, on August 31, 2026, bringing an end to proceedings that lasted approximately two years.Dr. Yennie had faced one count of Abuse of Public Office, one count of Official Corruption, two counts of Misappropriation, and one count of Money Laundering.In delivering its decision, the District Court ruled that the police file and witness statements contained insufficient evidence to commit Dr. Yennie to the National Court for trial.Addressing the two Misappropriation counts, the Magistrate observed that while one charge could have been brought on the allegations, laying two separate counts based on the exact same set of facts was unfair and constituted an abuse of process.Consequently, the Court dismissed all charges, lawfully discharged Dr. Yennie, and ordered an immediate refund of his bail money.The criminal proceedings trace back to August 2024, when Dr. Yennie was suspended and subsequently removed as CEO of NCDPHA before the allegations against him had been tested in court.Although he was later reinstated by the Public Services Commission and received official clearances from the Ombudsman Commission, the Office of the Public Prosecutor, and other relevant authorities, police investigations persisted, leading to formal charges.While the legal proceedings remained unresolved, a replacement CEO was appointed to the NCDPHA.Welcoming the court’s ruling, Dr. Yennie expressed relief over the resolution of the case.“I am relieved that after almost two years, the court has finally determined this matter.”“I have always maintained my confidence in the judicial process, and I am grateful that the allegations have now been properly tested before an independent court.”Reflecting on the impact of the multi-year ordeal, Dr. Yennie emphasized that his case underscores the critical need for due process and procedural fairness when dealing with allegations against public servants.“Accountability in public office is essential, but it must always be exercised fairly and in accordance with due process.”“An allegation is not a finding of guilt. People should not suffer irreversible professional and reputational consequences before allegations against them have been properly tested through the judicial process.”Following his discharge, Dr. Yennie expressed gratitude to his legal counsel, Mr. Edward Sasingian of Sasingian Lawyers, as well as his family and supporters for standing by him throughout the proceedings.With the legal matter now fully concluded, Dr. Yennie stated that his focus is on moving forward and continuing his service to the people of Papua New Guinea.