Police and Papua New Guinea Defense Force (PNGDF) Joint efforts have stabilized the escalating tribal violence at the New Porgera Mine site in Enga Province. Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP) Western End and State of Emergency (SOE) Controller Joseph Tondop, has confirmed that Police and PNGDF on ground in Porgera have secured stability. ACP Tondop told PNG HAUSBUNG that the PNGDF have deployed a company consisting of three platoons to work alongside three Police Mobile Squad Units (MSU) to ensure normalcy and peace in the Porgera Valley. He emphasized that this is excessive but adequate given the history of the violence in Porgera. While no arrests have been made in connection to the fight, ACP Tondop emphasized that the ringleaders and key players are known to authorities and will be approached for a resolution. Tondop expressed the importance of engaging with the clan leaders to address the root cause of the conflict. “We want to bring all the leaders together for a conference and explain why such fights are detrimental. The Mine pit is a prohibited area, and any activities are at individuals’ own risk,” he stated. ACP Tondop warned against extending violence to the broader community and urging local leaders to prioritize peace, highlighting the risks posed by the ongoing clashes. With the New Porgera Mine remaining as a combative zone, ACP Tondop emphasized that illegal activities only escalate the situation. Efforts are ongoing to establish effective communication and ensuring peace, with ACP Tondop maintaining a firm stance against the perpetrators and committing to safeguarding public safety in the region.

Madang Provincial Police Commander (PPC), acting Superintendent Robert Baim, has raised concerns over the escalating issue of bank card cloning, urging immediate action to protect citizens. In addressing the alarming rise in this criminal activity, PPC Baim emphasized the critical need for vigilance and proactive measures within communities. PPC Baim highlighted that while technological advancements bring opportunities, they also present significant threats to society, with bank card cloning posing a serious risk to both the financial security and trust of citizens. Baim urged community members to remain alert and promptly report any suspicious activities or devices associated with card cloning. He stressed that collective engagement is essential to combat this menace and safeguard communities. “I encourage all community members to remain alert and report any suspicious activities or devices that may be associated with the card cloning. “Your proactive engagement is vital in our efforts to eradicate this criminal practice and safeguard our community,” PPC Baim said. Furthermore, PPC Baim underscored the importance of improving border security to prevent the entry of individuals with malicious intentions. He emphasized that securing Papua New Guinea’s borders is vital to protecting citizens, resources, and rural areas from exploitation. “Our borders are our first line of defense against unlawful activities, and we must fortify them to protect our citizens and resources effectively." “As responsible citizens, we share the duty to protect our land, people, and the environment. It is concerning to recognize that illegal aliens with harmful intentions may exploit our vulnerabilities, especially in the rural areas," he said. PPC Baim encourages the public to work closely with law enforcement to create a safer environment. He reminded citizens that unity and vigilance are key to ensuring a secure future for all.

The Mono Mutrus Brothers and D8 Mosquitos have secured their spots for epic KCK Rigo Rice Cup Grand Final after defeating their opponents at the Bava Park in Port Moresby city on Wednesday. The Mono Mutrus Brothers delivered a stellar performance, ending Tare Nation's dominant winning streak with a resounding 28-6 victory. The emphatic win not only secured their spot in the grand final but also highlighted their strength and determination as championship contenders in the KCK Rigo Rice Cup Leg-One competition. In another thrilling semifinal, the D8 Mosquitos overcame the Koita Cowboys in a hard-fought 16-8 contest. Their disciplined defence and timely attacking plays ensured their progression to the grand final. With these results, the two teams are set to clash in what promises to be an electrifying final on Sunday, January 19th at the Bava Park. Both teams have displayed exceptional skill and resilience throughout the tournament, making this Grand Final a must-watch event. For the Mono Mutrus Brothers, it’s a chance to cap off their rise with championship glory. Meanwhile, the D8 Mosquitos will be looking to maintain their momentum and claim the coveted title. The stage is set for an anticipated high-stakes showdown between the Mono Mutrus Brothers and the D8 Mosquitos for the KCK Rigo Rice Cup's first leg-1 Grand Final.

The Justin Tkatchenko (JT) Super 9’s is set to kick off this February 8th to the 23rd in Port Moresby, with a grand prize of K50,000 in accordance with the Nation’s 50th Anniversary. The tournament has huge cash prizes for each trophy winner from Cup, Plate, Bowl including the Runner-Up and Penance prize. This includes winning and runner up prizes for the Under-20 men and women's division. All the matches will be on the weekends at the Kaugere Rugby Oval, South of Port Moresby. Tournament Coordinator Mr. Bagelo Solien says the JT Super 9’s will be coordinated with 20 official coordinator and 70 security marshals to handle any violence between teams and crowd control. Mr. Solien expressed deep gratitude towards the Moresby South MP and Minister of Foreign Affairs Justin Ktatchenko for his continuous support, especially this year with the generous prize money budgeted for the winners. The cash prize money in men’s division will be allocated as follows. Cup Trophy Winners- K50,000 | Runner-Up - K25,000 Plate Trophy Winners- K16,000 | Runner-Up - K10,000 Bowl Trophy Winners- K6,000 | Runner-Up – K4,000 Penance – K3,000 U20 men's division. Winners – K10,000 | Runner Up K5,000 U20 women's division. First place winner K5,000 | Runner Up K2,000 Second Place K 2,000 | Runners Up K1,000 Mr. Solien urges all teams to have fun and adequately prepare for 11 days of Excitement. All teams interested must register quickly as the highly anticipated showdown will close registration on February 1st, 2025.

The highly anticipated Justin Tkatchenko (JT) Super 9's will be strict on “No Violence” this year following its history of violence among teams and officials. Tournament Director Mr. Bagelo Solien strongly stated that the Tournament committee will disqualify any team and player who behaves inappropriately or unethically towards tournament officials or rival teams. “Teams with a history of violence against official must be careful this year, I will not allow harm to any of my officials. Teams will be disqualified if harm comes to my officials, especially referees and linesmen.” According to Mr. Solien, 70 security marshals will be active during the games and will increase depending on the nature of the match towards the finals. This includes two police units on standby to ensure a safe environment for both players and supporters. Furthermore, Mr. Solien stressed that the committee this year expects wants more than 32 teams to participate and will accommodate 44 teams only for the Men’s senior Division. Meanwhile the U- 20 men division will consist of 32 teams and women division with 16 teams only. Mr. Solien also mentioned that due to students skipping school to participate in the tournament on weekdays, the tournament games will commence on the weekends only to enable students to focus on school. All U- 20 men players must provide proper identification to identify their age, such as the National Identification (NID) and Drivers Licence to participate in the U- 20 division to ensure fairness among the young athletes. The Justin Tkatchenko (JT) Super 9’s will kick off on February 8th and wrapping up on the 23rd in Port Moresby city.

Banz Police seizes a military issued hand-grenade and Marijuana Garden in Banz Jiwaka Province. Banz Police under the command of Acting Provincial Police Commander Jiwaka Chief Inspector Laimo Asi, recently arrested and detained two suspects in possession of a military-grade grenad in Banz. According to Chief Inspector Asi the arrests were acted on a tip-off and maintained surveillance before arresting the suspects in Bans main market at 6pm on Friday 10th January. The grenade was delivered to military officials at the PNG Defence Force establishment in Kerowil for safe keeping, while the suspects were detained at the Banz Police Station cells. PPC Asi stated that the bomb will be used as evidence in court once the suspects are charged and prosecuted. The arrests were a result of effective police intelligence and community networking. Meanwhile, in a village near Banz Station police arrested two male suspects following the discovery of a tall garden of Marijuana Plants which police uprooted and took to the Banz Police Station. Furthermore, Mr. Asi reported that Police Highway Patrol cleared a fallen tree stump set on fire across the Okuk Highway, warning and dispersing opportunists beside the highway to allow commuters safe passage. PPC Asi stressed that Jiwaka police also arrested a woman for producing home-brew liquor following a raid a village in Klanga in North Whagi. This arrest brings the total number of people detained by Jiwaka police over the past two days to five. Meantime, Commissioner of Police David Manning praised Jiwaka Police for recovering a military issued hand grenade in Banz on Friday 10th January 2025. Commissioner Manning highlighted the arrests, and recovery demonstrates the Constabulary's commitment to addressing armed tribal conflicts in the highland’s region. He mentioned that the successful tracing and arrest of the suspects in Banz market, where the grenade was recovered was thanks to the effective intelligence gathering and community networking.

The Leg-2 Round 1 in the Rigo Rice Cup kicked off with an electrifying clash with the Darebo Mix Dogs edging out a 4-point margin over the Baruni Eagles. The Darebo Mix Dogs edged out a narrow victory, defeating the Eagles by a 24-20 in a high-energy game that kept fans on the edge of their seats. The Mix Dogs started strong in the first half, with David Veao scoring an early try in the 11th minute, followed by a try from Koki Tam. They continued their momentum in the second half with tries from Nom Killy, Danis Misria, and Namos Vaina. Despite four drop balls and five penalties, their two successful conversions proved crucial in securing the win. The Baruni Eagles displayed a commendable fightback, starting with a first half try by Pala Dabu. The second half saw Yori Wamoi, Numa Tete, Anthony Silas, and York Wamoi crossing the line. However, their efforts fell short, with only two successful conversions, three drop balls, and a single penalty affecting their final tally. The game showcased exceptional talent and determination from both sides, setting the stage for an exciting Leg-2 Round 1 ahead in the Rigo Rice Cup. Fans eagerly await the upcoming matches in round 1 as the competition intensifies.

The Leg-1 Semi-Finals of the KCK Rigo Rice Cup, originally scheduled for today, have been postponed to Saturday, 11th January 2025. Due to field conditions with line marking, tournament officials made this difficult decision under the management of KCK Rigo Rice Cup Chief Executive Officer (CEO) McSteve Polly. The decision to postpone aims to ensure the safety and optimal playing conditions for all teams involved. The updated schedule for Leg One Semi-Finals and Preliminary Finals will be communicated once necessary preparations are completed. All Semi-Final and Preliminary Final games will still take place at Bava Park Field 2. The postponement impacts the scheduled matches between City Rebels vs Mono Muturus Brothers and Kagua Woodman vs D8 Mosquitoes in the Semi-Finals. Winners from these games will proceed to the Preliminary Finals, facing Tare Naiton and Koita Cowboys, respectively. Leg-2 of the tournament will kick off as planned on Saturday, 11th January 2025, at the same venue. CEO Mr. Polly has urged all teams to be punctual to ensure sufficient playing time. While the delay is regrettable, the tournament management assures that these measures are in the best interest of the players and the integrity of the competition. Your understanding and cooperation are greatly appreciated.

Kundiawa Police welcomed Superintendent Mazuc Rubiang today as the new Simbu Provincial Police Commander (PPC) this Wednesday, January 8th, 2025. Today, in the center of Kundiawa Town, Superintendent Rubiang was welcomed with a parade where he addressed his officers and the public, outlining his plans as the new police chief of the province. PPC Rubiang is no stranger to Kundiawa Prior to serving 30 in the province before transferring to other locations, in his Police Career. Residents from across all districts outside Kundiawa Town came together to celebrate and Honor their native son, who, after 30 years of dedicated service to Simbu Province and a transfer elsewhere, has now returned to lead as Police Chief. On behalf of the people of Simbu, the Ward 4 Councillor of Dukane LLG in Kerowagi District welcomed Superintendent Rubiang, noting that his arrival is timely given the current law and order challenges in the province. PPC Rubiang expressed his gratitude to the Commissioner of Police David Manning and his three deputies and Assistant Commissioner of Police for Eastern End for having confidence in him. PPC Rubiang addressed his officers, highlighting that the province's biggest discipline problem among the police force is a major contributor to law and order issues. He emphasized the need to address internal discipline before tackling broader law and order challenges, stating that commanders must either perform or leave. Furthermore, PPC Rubiang emphasized that addressing the province's law and order issues is a significant challenge that requires support from the Simbu Provincial Government, the six District Members of Parliament, business communities, and the public. He announced that his operation would begin on Friday and expressed his support for the Simbu Provincial Government's liquor ban. Superintendent Rubiang, who was recently promoted and transferred to the National Capital District as Superintendent, effectively improved city residents' behaviour by increasing bails for certain offenses during his tenure as acting NCD Metropolitan Superintendent. He plans to implement similar measures in Simbu to ensure people respect and adhere to the laws.

The Tobalu WRL claimed the first ever title as the Women's Cup Grand Final winner over the 6 Mile Tigers in the NCD Governors Cup Women's Cup Grand Final on Sunday 5th January 2025 at the Hubert Murray Stadium in Port Moresby city. Tobalu dominated the match, defeating their opponents 12-0 in a hard-fought battle that showcased exceptional skills and teamwork. Tobalu WRL secured the championship title through three impressive tries, scored by Velma Locket, Winnie Kasari, and Shendi Dumbu. Despite their efforts, Tobalu was unable to convert any of their tries, but their unyielding defence ensured Six Mile Tigers were kept scoreless throughout the match. The grand final highlighted the growing prominence of women’s rugby league in the region, with both teams demonstrating high levels of athleticism and determination. The match was a testament to the spirit of the women’s competition, fostering unity and empowering women in sports. The NCD Women’s Governor's Cup has become a crucial platform for promoting female athletes in Papua New Guinea, inspiring the next generation of rugby league players. Tobalu WRLC’s victory not only marks a historic achievement for the team but also underscores the potential for women’s rugby league to grow and thrive on both a national and international stage.

The 8 Mile Settlers claimed the NCD Governor’s Cup 2024-2025 victory after a commanding 22-12 win against the Mountain Bulls in the evening of Sunday 5th January at the Hubert Murray Stadium, Konedobu Port Moresby city. The Settlers showcased their skills and determination, scoring four tries with three successful conversions, while capitalizing on their opponent's errors. The game kicked off with early dominance from the Elwin Lapan and Peter Bongoro scoring two tries. Slyder Bulu converted both and added a penalty kick to keep the Bulls in contention. However, although the Settlers conceded seven penalties, the Bulls caused ten penalties which proved costly, handing the Settlers crucial opportunities to seize control. The aggression from 8 Mile Settlers' Raphael Nolai and James Michael, saw the Settlers cross the try line in the first half, with Andy Onguglo securing one out of two conversions to give the Settlers an early edge. The second half saw further brilliance as Manase Watt and Onguglo adding two more tries, with Onguglo flawlessly converting both. Andy Onguglo’s all-round performance earned him the Man of the Match award, a fitting recognition for his pivotal role in the victory. The win not only cements the Settlers’ reputation but also underscores their ability to maintain composure under pressure, securing the coveted NCD Governor’s Cup title.

The Six Mile Tigers emerged victorious in the Men’s Plate Grand Final in the 2024 NCD Governor’s Cup, defeating the Geehood Vikings 10-2 in a decisive performance on Sunday. With a final score line that showcased their dominance, the Tigers claimed the title with two well-executed tries and one successful conversion, while the Vikings managed only a penalty. The Tigers’ attacking flair and relentless pace were evident from the start, as they capitalized on opportunities to cross the try line twice. Despite missing one conversion, their overall control of the game was enough to keep the Vikings at bay. The Geehood Vikings fought valiantly, earning a penalty kick to put points on the board. However, they struggled to match the Tigers’ intensity and precision in key moments. The Tigers, despite conceding three penalties, maintained their composure and leveraged their superior speed and teamwork to secure a comfortable win. This victory solidified the Six Mile Tigers’ position as a rising force in the tournament and a dominant opponent in the plate division. Their ability to defy the odds and execute under pressure highlights their potential for continued success in future tournaments. The Tigers’ triumph in the Grand Final is a testament to their discipline, resilience, and unwavering determination.