A four-day refresher training for game officials has concluded at Moro Village in Almami Local Level Government (LLG).The initiative has successfully equipped referees and umpires with updated technical knowledge ahead of the upcoming Governor’s Cup, which is set to launch this Sunday, January 11, 2026. Facilitated by the Madang Provincial Sports Office with the support of Madang Governor Ramsey Pariwa, the sessions focused on current rules and newly introduced laws. These updates are designed to improve the quality, consistency, and fairness of officiating across all sporting codes throughout the tournament. The program saw active participation from 43 match officials, including 16 soccer referees and 27 volleyball umpires. Throughout the four days, participants demonstrated strong enthusiasm for the opportunity to deepen their understanding of the game and refine their professional skills. Almami LLG President Mr. Kenneth Makis, expressed his full support for the initiative and confirmed that a dedicated committee is now in place to oversee the organization and coordination of the Governor’s Cup within the LLG. Meanwhile, Madang Provincial Sports Coordinator Pancito Amepou, thanked the participants for their commitment and noted that learning is a continuous process. “I would like to thank all the participants who have shown a keen interest in their respective sporting codes,” Mr. Amepou said. “Learning never stops, and their enthusiasm to improve is commendable.” He also acknowledged the leadership of Mr. Kenneth Makis for creating a positive working environment that enables effective collaboration between his committee and the Provincial Sports Office. “My sincere appreciation also goes to Governor Ramsey Pariwa, for supporting the efforts of the team organizing both the training and the upcoming games for the youth of Almami LLG.” Mr. Amepou urged the wider community to take part in the Governor’s Cup activities, highlighting the broader social and economic benefits of the event. “I urge everyone to participate in one way or another, as these games will not only benefit our young people but will also boost small and medium enterprises, giving our mothers in the LLG an opportunity to earn some income during the course of the games.” This training marks a significant milestone in strengthening sports development and community participation in Almami LLG as final preparations for the Governor’s Cup move forward.

Leaders of Watenge clan of the Yambatan tribe in Tsak Valley, Wapenamanda District of Enga Province, submitted a petition to the police hierarchy and Enga Provincial Government on Thursday, demanding an immediate investigation into a deadly security operation.The petition, received by Highlands Region Western End Commander Joseph Tondop, and acting Provincial Police Commander Kelly Sombe, highlights allegations of excessive force during the enforcement of the Counter Terrorism Act by Police Tactical Group Kumul-23 on January 2, 2026. The community leaders, led by Councillor Alas Kangual of Alumanda Ward 9, reported that the incident began at 3AM when more than twenty police vehicles arrived while residents were asleep. Gunfire reportedly lasted until 8AM, during which time five people were killed, and several others were wounded or detained. Among the deceased were Village Court Magistrate Winis Kaki and his wife Margret Kaki, a primary school teacher. Also killed were 75-year-old former Councillor Enakawan Kiponge and two young men, Jarnol Taso and Isaac Wia. Four additional young men between the ages of 18 and 25 are currently receiving treatment for bullet wounds at Mt Hagen Provincial Hospital. Furthermore, three men; identified as a pastor, a primary school headmaster, and a villager, remain in police custody in Mendi. The Watenge leaders maintain that their clan has never been involved in tribal fighting and they have questioned the validity of the intelligence reports that led to the raid. They claim that innocent people were targeted randomly, some from distances of up to 1.5 kilometres, as they moved around in panic. The petition demands a thorough and independent investigation into the terms of reference for the operation and calls for the Criminal Investigation Division (CID) to facilitate post-mortem examinations for the five victims. Councillor Kangual also appealed for the release of the detainees, arguing they should not be charged under the Counter Terrorism Act. The clan is seeking state compensation for the victims and has requested a formal response to their demands within three working days. In response, Assistant Commissioner of Police Joseph Tondop expressed his condolences to the grieving families but emphasized that the joint security forces acted on local intelligence to capture persons of interest. While he maintained that those in custody have the right to clear themselves in court, he assured the clan that police would assist with the post-mortem process. He further stated that the Enga CID must be allowed to access the incident sites this weekend to assess the situation and ensure law enforcement is held accountable if any wrongdoing is confirmed.

Rising rugby league talent Hercules Kondo is making the most of his opportunity after earning a call-up to the SP PNG Hunters, marking a major milestone in his young sporting career.Kondo, who hails from Eastern Highlands Province, began his rugby league journey in 2018 while attending Motofana Primary School. Progressing steadily through the under-14, under-16 and under-18 ranks under the guidance of local coach Ricky Savavi, his dedication and development soon caught the attention of selectors. He later played his under-19 rugby league at Okufa Primary School and was selected into the PNG NRL Academy in 2023. His performances continued to impress, earning him selection in the Junior Kumuls squad in 2024 and again in 2025. That pathway led to an unexpected opportunity last year when Kondo was selected to train with the PNG NRL Hunters. “I was very surprised to see my name offered for the Hunters. My family and community were also surprised, but they trusted me and encouraged me to believe in myself,” said Kondo. Now immersed in the Hunters’ high-intensity training environment, Kondo's experience has pushed him both physically and mentally. He said, “The training level is high, but I’m learning every day. The seniors give me advice and help me improve. The team culture and bonding make me feel welcome.” Kondo, who is comfortable playing fullback and also has experience in the centres and halves, has set clear goals for his future with the Hunters. “I want to work hard and be part of the team. That’s my focus,” said the young lad.Beyond the field, Kondo credits rugby league for positively shaping his life and keeping young people on the right path. He said, “Rugby league helps us stay healthy and keeps us away from trouble. It helps young people avoid things like alcohol and bad influences.” Balancing school and sport have also been a key part of his journey. Kondo attends school in the mornings before heading straight to training in the afternoons, a routine he says requires discipline and time management. Coming from a family of six, Kondo hopes his rise will inspire his younger brothers, who also play rugby league. “I want to be a role model for them and for other young boys in my community,” he said. Kondo's parents have been instrumental in his development, often reminding him of the importance of discipline and choosing the right peers. When asked about his role model, Kondo pointed close to home. “My role model is Nehemiah Joel,” he said. “He’s from our local village, came through the Junior Kumuls, and he’s a senior I really look up to.” As he continues his journey with the SP PNG Hunters, Kondo represents the growing pool of young Papua New Guinean talents aiming to make their mark at higher levels of rugby league.

Students at the Papua New Guinea University of Technology (PNG UoT) late last year received the new school fee structure for 2026 with a noticeable rise in fees and a surprisingly short payment deadline.Speculations on the school fee payment deadline filled social media platforms, mainly WhatsApp and Facebook, stating that students had until January 16th to complete full payments or they would not be eligible to register for the academic year. Students expressed their frustration through social media stating that without the DHEARST TESAS list students would be confused on the correct category of fees to pay. Mr. Darren Maino, President of the Lae City Students and Staff Association, expressed that “the increase in the school fees will be a big challenge to students this year” “Students and the general public are advised to interpret information disseminated through the official PNGUOT communication channels,” said Mr. Maino.  Meanwhile, the PNG University of Technology Student Representative Senate (SRS) announced on their official channel yesterday, 7th of January, that the article published by Post Courier about the fee’s deadline contained information that was not verified by the university. The university around 12PM today released a public statement authorized by their Registrar Mrs. Veronica Thomas, clarifying that the school fee payment deadline will be extended to the 30th of January. The statement also noted that the extension of the deadline comes with the condition that students, both new intakes and continuing, are required to pay a minimum of 60% of the total fees including outstanding fees before registering for the academic year 2026.

The Papua New Guinea (PNG) Lewas have gone down to Western Australia Country Women in a closely contested T20 match at Stockwell Oval, Adelaide, as part of the Toyota Australian Country Cricket Championships – Female Division (Summer 2025/26), on Wednesday, January 7th, 2026.Western Australia Country Women won the toss and elected to bat, posting 107 for 8 from 20 overs. PNG Lewas responded with a determined chase but finished on 90 for 7 from their 20 overs, falling short with three wickets in hand. Despite the loss, the LEWAS showed continued improvement throughout the innings, applying pressure in the field and remaining competitive until the final overs. The PNG LEWAS have two more matches remaining in the Toyota Australian Country Cricket Championships – Female Division, as they continue to gain valuable international exposure and competitive experience against Australia’s country representative sides, before they head to Nepal for the Global Qualifiers. Cricket PNG acknowledged and sincerely thanked the PacificAus Sports Program (PAS) for fully funding the PNG Lewas’ participation in this tour. This vital support has enabled the team to compete, develop, and represent Papua New Guinea on the international stage. They also acknowledged Cricket Australia for their partnership and continued support throughout this tournament, contributing to the growth and development of women’s cricket in the Pacific. The PNG Lewas remain proud ambassadors for Papua New Guinea as they continue their campaign in Adelaide, Australia.

On Wednesday January 7th, 2026, Aviation Security (AVSEC) officers at Port Moresby International Airport’s domestic terminal successfully intercepted 11 rounds of live ammunition.The prohibited items were discovered concealed within a passenger’s check-in baggage during primary screening prior to a scheduled flight to Goroka. Following the detection, security personnel immediately detained the suspect and escorted them to the National Airports Corporation (NAC) Aviation Security Base for interrogation. The individual was subsequently transferred to the 7 Mile Airport Police Station, where they remain under investigation by local authorities. NAC has formally commended the AVSEC team for their high level of vigilance and professionalism in neutralizing this security risk. This successful interception highlights the NAC’s ongoing commitment to maintaining a safe environment across all airports in Papua New Guinea. By strictly enforcing the PNG Civil Aviation Act 2000 and relevant national laws, the NAC continues to prioritize the detection of restricted items and substances that could endanger lives or property. This incident serves as a reminder of the rigorous screening processes in place to prevent the smuggling of dangerous goods through the nation’s aviation network.

Prime Minister (PM) James Marape says he wants to restore the old Daru town in the Western province back to its glory days as one of the leading centers in Papua New Guinea (PNG).The prime minister, who was in Daru yesterday for the commissioning of the new National Fisheries Authority (NFA) Monitoring, Control and Surveillance (MCS) Command Centre there, told the people that Daru sits at a strategically vital place that is beneficial for both Western province and the country as a whole. PM Marape acknowledges the challenges in Daru and pledges to address and improve services like water supply, electricity and road conditions, stating that these issues are on the national agenda to attend to. He noted that Daru sits at the heart of Western Province, a region with the largest landmass in PNG, rich natural resources, major river systems, and direct borders with both Australia and Indonesia.“No other province carries this level of strategic importance,” he said. “What happens in Daru matters not only to Western Province, but to Papua New Guinea as a whole.”Marape said Daru’s future development must align with its role as a gateway town — linking inland communities, coastal regions and international neighbours.He pointed to opportunities for expanded trade, port development, aviation infrastructure and regional services, noting that Daru’s location gives it unmatched potential for growth if properly supported.“With the right infrastructure and governance, Daru can once again become a hub — not only for Western Province, but for cross-border cooperation and economic activity,” he said.

The Connect PNG K300 million Poroma-Kutubu Road Upgrade launches at Pimaga Station in the Nipa Kutubu District of Southern Highlands Province today.It is a major infrastructure investment aimed at improving connectivity to the Kutubu oilfields and strengthening the Southern Corridor linking Southern Highlands and Gulf provinces, and beyond.The project falls under the Connect PNG Economic Road Infrastructure Development Program and is being implemented by the Department of Works and Highways (DoWH). According to Department of Works and Highways, the road upgrade follows the signing of the construction contract on 22nd October 2024, witnessed by H.E. Grand Chief Sir Bob Bofeng Dadae, Governor-General of Papua New Guinea. “The contract was signed by China Railway Construction Engineering Group Co. Ltd, represented by General Manager Lianan Chang and Deputy General Manager Sam Jia, in the presence of Secretary for Works and Highways, Mr. Gibson Holemba.” “It covers the upgrading and sealing of 100.2 kilometres of the Kutubu Road, from the Highlands Highway junction at Parita to the Moro Gate and Kamiri Bridge in the Southern Highlands Province; valued at K371,510,087.97, inclusive of GST.” Funding for the road will be provided through a combination of National Government support under the Connect PNG program and the Infrastructure Tax Credit Scheme, with contributions from Santos, ExxonMobil and Kumul Petroleum Holdings Limited. The National Executive Council (NEC) approved the award of the contract to China Railway Construction Engineering Group Co. Ltd. Secretary Holemba described the project as a “major facelift” for the Southern/Gulf Highway, noting that it is a critical economic corridor leading to the Kutubu oilfields and forms part of the broader Southern Corridor into Kikori and Gulf Province. The Poroma–Kutubu Road Upgrade is expected to significantly improve transport efficiency, enhance access to vital economic areas, and support long-term development for communities in the Southern Highlands and neighbouring provinces.

The state-of-the-art National Fisheries Authority (NFA) Monitoring, Control and Surveillance (MCS) Command Centre was opened today in Daru, Western province.Prime Minister James Marape described the official commissioning of the new NFA facility as a major milestone in safeguarding Papua New Guinea’s marine resources, sovereignty and future economic security. “Today it is a proud milestone moment for our nation. Though seemingly small, it is a big step in the right direction in the protection of our resources, our sovereignty and our future,” Prime Minister Marape said.He commended Managing Director of the National Fisheries Authority Mr. Justin Ilakini and his staff for faithfully implementing the Fisheries Strategic Plan 2021–2030 and the Government’s Medium-Term Development Plan IV, particularly in strengthening surveillance and governance of fisheries resources.“You did not wait for a second or third round of instruction. You took heed of Government policy and got to work,” the Prime Minister said.Prime Minister Marape highlighted that Papua New Guinea possesses one of the largest and richest maritime zones in the Pacific, nourished by extensive river systems flowing into both the northern and southern seas; thus, the new NFA facility is a major achievement in keeping watch over the marine resources.The Prime Minister was joined by Minister for Fisheries Jelta Wong, Western Province Governor Taboi Awi Yoto, South Fly MP Sekie Agisa and NFA MD Justin Ilakini at the official ceremony, joined by other distinguished guests and partners, as well as the community in Daru.

The Madang Urban Local Level Government (MULLG) Christmas Yard Competition has officially concluded, with winners from all ten wards receiving their prizes yesterday.The competition, which ran throughout the Christmas festive season, aimed to encourage creativity and promote the true spirit of Christmas through decorative home yards within the MULLG area.Best decorated yards from Ward One to Ward Ten were selected through a two-stage process. Ward councilors from each ward first identified outstanding yards, which were then assessed by appointed judges before final decisions were made.The Christmas Yard Competition was organized by the Madang Provincial Events Committee in partnership with the Madang Urban Local Level Government.Winners expressed surprise and excitement upon receiving their prizes.Angelica Takaili, who won first prize for Best Decorated Yard in Ward Two, thanked the Madang Provincial Events Committee for initiating the competition, saying it motivated residents to decorate their homes during the festive season.“This competition motivates all of us to decorate our yards and celebrate Christmas in its true spirit. I hope more people will take part this year,” she said.Meanwhile, Julie D. Ariako, the first prize winner for Ward Six, said her family’s efforts were well deserved, noting that decorating their yard has been a long-standing Christmas tradition.“This is not our first time decorating our yard. Every Christmas we decorate, and I believe we deserve this prize,” she said, while thanking the organizers for the initiative.Ward Two Councilor and Deputy Town Mayor, Sammy Tindipu, while presenting prizes to winners in his ward, acknowledged the Madang Provincial Events Committee and the Madang Urban Local Level Government for organizing what he described as a successful and meaningful Christmas initiative for the people of Madang town.

The Minister for Police, Peter Tsiamalili Jnr has confirmed that a joint security operation that was carried out in the Tsak Valley in Enga Province, was targeting illegal high-powered firearms that were posing serious threat to public safety and national security.In a recently released press statement, the Minister said the intelligence-led operation was conducted on January 2nd and involved Police and Defence personnel acting on information about the presence of factory-made military grade weapons within civilian communities. He said security forces encountered armed resistance during the operation, resulting in the fatal wounding of two suspects who were each armed with M16 assault rifles. One member of the security forces was also shot during the exchange and later received medical treatment. The officer is now recovering. The Minister expressed regret over the loss of life but emphasized that the presence of such weapons in civilian areas represents a grave and unacceptable risk to peace, safety, and national stability. He said military grade firearms have no place in Papua New Guinea society. According to the operational summary cleared for release, coordinated operations were carried out at two separate locations in Tsak Village during the early hours of the morning. At the first location, a suspect opened fire from inside a residence, wounding an officer. Security forces returned fire in what the Minister described as a proportionate response to an immediate threat. At the second location, another armed suspect was encountered and fatally wounded after posing what authorities assessed as a direct danger to personnel on the ground. Additional illegal firearms were recovered during the operation. Three other suspects were arrested and remained in lawful custody. They have since been transported to Mendi, where they are expected to face charges relating to illegal weapons possession and other criminal offences. The Minister said security personnel also came under sustained fire during their withdrawal from the area, with armed individuals positioned on higher ground deliberately obstructing exit routes. Reinforcements from the Papua New Guinea Defence Force were deployed to secure a safe extraction. Investigations are continuing to determine how the weapons entered the area and to identify networks involved in the trafficking and supply of illegal firearms. The Minister said the operation forms part of broader national efforts to disrupt the flow of weapons contributing to violence and instability. He commended the conduct of police and Defence personnel involved, stating they acted within established rules of engagement and in response to imminent threats to life. The Minister also called on leaders, commentators, and the public to act responsibly when discussing matters of national security, warning that unverified or misleading information could inflame tensions and undermine confidence in security institutions.

Despite the bad weather conditions, East New Britain Governor Michael Marum travelled to the Gazelle, Kokopo and Rabaul Districts on Sunday 4th January to offer provincial government support to the churches.The governor presented a sum of K40,000 to the Rausepna Catholic parish located inland of the Baining area.By noon, he headed to the Vunakabi Resettlement in Rabaul, where he presented K20,000 to the Tavana United Church. Their last stop was the Karavara United Church in Duke of York LLG, Kokopo district, where he presented a total of K20,000 of financial support for the maintenance for the church.The sole purpose for the governor’s hand of support is not only to help these churches improve their infrastructures by undergoing maintenance, but also as a show of gratitude for assisting in development and community building.A small yet warm gesture given to these churches helps strengthen faith and foster a better sense of community within the area.Father (Fr) Michael Dawai of the Rausepna Catholic Parish acknowledged the efforts of the governor and his team with their continuous support to churches within the province.He stated that the churches will continue to do their part in community development, peace and moral guidance.The Governor said, “The church remains a key partner in development. When we support the church we strengthen families, communities, and the values that hold our society together”Development and service delivery to all sectors of the East New Britain will remain the ENB Provincial Government’s commitment while partnering to working alongside all church denomination in 2026.