A young man was rescued by police in 6mile after he was accused and held captive for the murder of a 45year old man. The accused was held captive by the victim’s relatives who were believed to be ready to take justice into their own hands, fortunately the police intervened and took the suspect into their own hands. The victim from Goilala, Central, after receiving the fatal blows died later at the Port Moresby General Hospital and the accused a 22-year-old male also from Goilala is now in police custody facing murder charges. According to Divisional Commander Northern and interim Commander for NCD/Central, Assistant Commissioner Peter Guinness, the suspect who was held captive at the Ivani settlement at 6 Mile was rescued when police were given a tip off. Furthermore, the members of Sierra Quebec 10 who responded to this incident spent over 30 minutes of talking, until they persuaded the settlers to hand over the suspect. ACP Guiness stated the stabbing incident took enraged the community and they were prepared to take the law into own hands literally. Luckily the police had intervened and saved the accused from harm or possible death. "It was tense, because the settlers refused to budge, insisting to wait until the condition of the stab victim was made known to them, but I am satisfied with the effort taken by our policemen.”

Daniel Undaba's tale is one that stands out in the fast-paced world of digital and visual media as an example of the power of determination and self-belief. Undaba's story symbolizes the spirit of pursuing goals despite all obstacles. He graduated from Divine Word University in 2021 with a Bachelor of Communication Arts (Journalism) degree. He was born and raised in Mt Hagen, Western Highlands province. Due to his mixed parentage of Manus and Popondetta origin, Undaba's roots are entwined with a complex cultural tapestry. Even at twenty-three, his young enthusiasm and stubborn determination are like examples guiding the road to success in the media sector. Undaba's dream began in year two at Divine Word University to have a career in media. Driven by a natural love of telling stories, he set out to explore the difficulties of journalism, creating the foundation for what would eventually blossom into a prosperous profession. "It all began as a hobby," recalls Undaba. "With my trusty Canon 250D in hand, I ventured into the realms of photography and design, unaware of the many opportunities awaiting me." With a sense of entrepreneurship, Undaba took advantage of every chance to use Kange Media to display his emerging abilities. He moved through many media tools, developing his abilities with each project, from photographing special moments at local club events to providing his services as a photographer. "My secret motto has always been 'fake it till you make it'," shares Undaba. "I embraced challenges with delight, venturing into uncharted territories, driven by the determination to learn and grow." Undaba's experience with Melanesian Tourism Service was where he gained a lot of his knowledge with media under the guidance of Late Sir Peter Barter. Later Undaba moved to Post Courier and that served as an essential chapter in his evolution as a media luminary under the umbrella of Kange Media also. Whether it was managing the website or creating eye-catching images, videos, and press releases, every project strengthened Daniel Undaba's skills and helped him reach new heights. "I occupied myself in every part of media," states Undaba. "Whether reporting travel adventures or documenting conservation initiatives, I embraced diversity, extracting invaluable lessons from each." After he was recently appointed as a media consultant for UN Women, Undaba's career took off. He is assigned to do multi-media and graphic design projects, and through Kange Media, he is changing the media environment for the better. "As I take my step on this new chapter, my vision remains firm," affirms Undaba. "I aim for Kange Media to be recognized as a beacon of excellence, well-known for its advanced approach and commitment to quality." Meanwhile, Brian Dulume, a Mathematics and Computing Science graduate from Divine Word University in 2021, and a vital contributor to Kange Media's success, echoes Undaba's sentiments. "As a part of Kange Media, I've witnessed firsthand the dedication and passion driving our endeavors," explained Dulume. "We embrace challenges as opportunities for growth, guided by the belief that determination is the key to success in the ever-evolving media landscape."

Papua New Guinea Heavy Weight Gold Medalist Dika Toua has a strict goal to qualify for the 2024 Paris Olympic Games set in July. The qualification progression involves athletes across the world to participate in 5 international Events for the coveted 12 spots. Toua weighing 49kg sat on a 166kg Total as she walked to the platform, at the final qualification. Toua walked the platform weighing 49kg and sat on 166kg at the final qualification event, over Easter. Her Nearest rival held 170kg. Toua, who will be 40 in June, was aiming to become the first weightlifter ever to compete at six Olympic Games. Toua filled with hope, still attempts to set an Olympic record on her final shot on day one of the IWF World Cup in Phuket, Thailand. Toua’s duo rivals, the Madagascar Randafiarison holding 170kg and Australian Brenna Kean expected to her usual 64kg class, lost weight to compete under the 49kg class. Since 2019’s outstanding efforts from Toua, she courageously competed first and totalled an impressive 171kg. This followed two misses in the snatch and jerk. The Madagascan took the last qualification spot, pulling out a 172kg total. Starting her career last century and who was the first women ever to go on the platform at the Olympic Games, competed at Sydney 2000, Athens 2024, Beijing 2028, London 2012 and Tokyo three years ago. “I’m going to Fiji in September for the commonwealth championships, Fiji has the world Masters straight afterwards so I might as well try that too. It’s been a great Journey but it’s not over yet.” “I want to be in the Pacific Games in Palau next year. I can’t stop, weight lifting is my life,” said Toua. After Phuket, Toua arrives home on Friday only to travel immediately to lift in Goroka Eastern Highlands Province on Saturday for the PNG Championship. Toua still has a chance of going to Paris via a universality place. These six “Wild Card” invitations from the international Olympic Committee go to Nations who do not qualify many athletes, in all sports, for the Olympic Games. Toua is among the 32 weightlifting applicants from 28 countries. “I have faith that I will be in Paris,” said Toua.

Yeipa Karu, a 33-year-old former security guard and unmarried father of six from Awinda, Lake Kopiago, Hela Province, has been sentenced to 18 years in Bomana Correctional Facility for manslaughter. He began serving in March, a reduced term of 14 years and 11 months for fatally stabbing 25-year-old Felix Yope during a fight at a canteen near a bus stop in 6-Mile, Port Moresby, as ruled by Justice Nicolas Miviri at Waigani's National Court. Both individuals hailed from the same district, with Karu residing in Saraga, Kopiago Block, at the time of the incident. According to the court, the deceased (Yope) had tried to intervene in a fight involving the prisoner, who was intoxicated, at a canteen, and the prisoner (Karu), thinking it was one of his attackers, turned around and punched the deceased in the mouth, and took out a ‘Rambo Knife’ which he swung at him, but the deceased held back the knife. The second time, the prisoner swung the knife straight, penetrating the top left chest of the deceased. The prisoner removed it and ran away realizing that he had stabbed the deceased who fell onto the concrete at the bus stop. Yope later died from the wound at Port Moresby General Hospital. During sentencing, Justice Miviri stressed the seriousness of the crime, underscoring the value of life and the prevalence of knife-related offenses. Despite Karu's plea of guilt and lack of prior convictions, the court deemed his actions premeditated and the use of a deadly weapon in a public area deserving of severe punishment, reflecting the gravity of the offense. The mother of the deceased interviewed in the presentence report tendered into Court, highlighted that, she was very angry at the behaviour of the prisoner - he was not an enemy and the K 16,000.00 that was paid was to restore peace and normalcy and not what was demanded of K 70, 000.00 to K 100, 000.00. The court noted that her reactions were normal given the situation. However, the court said in any case the prisoner has no means to pay any compensation. “What has been paid did not emanate from his pocket.” “He is the author of the crime but has not felt the pain of putting that money together.” “He must bear responsibility for his criminal behaviour.” “It is not the law that other persons not responsible for the behaviour are made to meet the blood as here.” “That is confirmed by the Means assessment report also filed of the same date 05th March 2024.” “There is nothing within to sway any other sentence other than a strong custodial term because no amount of money will bring that life back. It is sacred and sanctified and must be accorded its place in the Constitution, section 35 Right to life.” Karu's mistaken belief that Yope was one of his attackers did not mitigate his accountability for what he had done; the court noted that Yope was merely trying to help Karu and was not threatening him. Karu's decision to repeatedly stab Yope, ultimately causing his death, demonstrated a flagrant disregard for human life, the court noted. “He (Yope) was only 25 years old at the time of his death…he had a long life ahead that was prematurely terminated by the prisoner…he did not prompt the prisoner (Karu) to attack him.” “He (Yope) was not in a threatening situation against the prisoner…he (Yope) was merely trying to help the prisoner… It was therefore not warranted to attack him with that knife.” The court also considered Karu's personal circumstances, including his remorse, lack of prior criminal record, and the support of his church community, but noted that these factors did not outweigh the seriousness of the offense. In delivering the sentence, Justice Miviri underscored the need for deterrence and accountability in addressing violent crimes, particularly in a public area. “…the immediate scene is a public bus stop frequented by publicans…No men should be attacked in a public area in this manner.” “To so attack in this manner is manifestly equivalent to the ever-prevalent behavior rampant to seriously defy the rule of law.” “The safety and security of all members of the public must be guaranteed by fear of the law.” “It seems there is no fear and observance of the rule of law.” “Bold is the fact that the law has become lame and disabled with no armour to ensure its rules.” “Violent crimes have no place in society, and the Court is bestowed by the legislature to ensure there is adherence respect for the rule of law.” “Therefore, criminal behaviour must be weeded out of its roots.”

Papua New Guinea Power Limited (PPL) Board of Directors Chairman Mr. McRonald Nale approved and clarified on 1st April 2024, that no debt over K700 million is owed to the International Power Producers (IPP) as stated in one of the dailies published on March 28th of 2024+. The IPP’s include NiuPower, Dirio, POSCO Lae, PNG Forests Products Hydro, Edevu (PNG Hydro Development), and New Britain Palm Oil Ltd. According to PPL records, PPL has debt with IPP but less than K700 million, inclusive of other charges on top of the energy bills, capital recovery cost and interest cost (inclusive of late payments) as per stipulated. “PPL is debating some of their invoices and will engage with individual IPP’s to resolve these issues individual as per their Power Purchase Agreements (PPA).” “To claim PPL is insolvent is misleading, PPL remains operational despite the tough economic conditions we face.” “PPL continues to improve power reliability right across all our operations in the country with strong support from the Marape-Rosso Government, Kumu Consolidated Holding and multilateral Partners.” He added that PPL acknowledges IPPs crucial role and as stakeholders, providing generation for our major grids and will continue that partnership with IPP under fair terms and conditions that are equitable to both parties.

Hohola Off-Season Rugby League (HoRL) President Mr. Kambi Ingiman remains determined to finish the 2024 Hohola Rugby League off Season on a high note, despite the challenges of limited resources, high number of teams and unpredictable weather. HoRL Committee recently hosted a meeting that clearly identified the appropriate actions and decisions to settle the team’s management complaints and queries. According to common arguments from team staff and management, this year’s off-season holds the highest number of teams to participate in the HRL Off-Season, therefore reduces the weekend rounds. Team Management feel the time is limited to play for an appropriate placing in the Top 16 Finals. The HoRL Committee finally concluded under an agreement with Team’s Management to extend the games with Top 16 teams from Pool A and B to play head to head, with the winning eight remain on by while the losing teams play against the bottom 8 (points) only to play for the top spots. The season has taken quite a pause due to the continuous heavy rains that has caused small expanding pools and puddles in the Hohola Ipi Park rugby field. Also raising concerns from teams and supporters on the season being delayed or stopped. However HoRL President Mr. Ingiman told PNG HAUSBUNG that the HRL Committee remains confident and is determined to finish the season strong this year despite the challenges endured, as it motivates the drive to complete the season successfully. Mr. Ingiman stressed the additional tournament of the Clash of the Wards Origin game Finals is expected to commence in the next two weeks and has planned to utilize this event as a platform to assist the young rugby men and women potentials to have the spotlight for the chance to be recruitment by local rugby club franchises. “This tournament could expose individuals to advance themselves to a new level in rugby and not remain in the same level, but the decision rests with them." "We plan to push forward the potentials willing to grab this opportunity and play in the big leagues,” said Mr. Ingiman. Mr. Ingiman said despite the challenges he remains grateful for the opportunity and responsibility as the President of the HoRL committee and appreciates the many support from officials, team management, especially to the Hohola Youth Empowerment Development Association (HYEDA) and the National Capital District (NCD) Governor Powes Parkop for the continuous support. Mr. Ingiman expressed humbly to the teams, management and supporters; “Be committed to your goal, be patient and respect the process.

NCD Governor Powes Parkop met with the Minister for Health, Dr. Lino Tom, Health Secretary Dr. Liko Osbourne and his Deputy Secretaries and senior officers, Mr. Ken Wai, Ms. Elva Lionel, Mr. Ambrose Koaram, Dr. Dora Lenturuth as well as the Chairman of NCDPHA, Mr. Daniel Waswas and his Executive Officer, Dr. Newton Albert. The meeting according to a media update from the Governor, was held to address outstanding issues impending the progress towards the commencement of construction of our NCD Level 5 Hospital at Tete Gerehu. “After much discussion it was resolved that we all supported the project 110 percent and the Health Secretary will be working closely with Treasury Secretary to have the final submission to NEC as soon as possible." Governor Parkop also stated that they all were in support of the funding mechanism that has been secured with China Construction Bank and Bank of China with a contractor to build at their choice and will negotiate the final terms of the funding agreement with the two Banks once the National Executive Counsel grants approval to the funding proposal. “We will set up the Project Trust Account with support instrument from Finance Minister as soon as possible to facilitate the financing arrangements from National Government and the Banks." "NCDC will be the Project Management Unit (PMU) spearheaded by City Manager.” “We will ensure the engineering, road construction, fencing and relocation of settlers start and get completed this year for actual construction of the level 5 hospital to start next year or as soon as possible.” Additionally, the Governor stated that they would be working simultaneously to address any technical issues especially on final detailed designs of the hospital especially on specific facilities so they conform to all Health requirements and standards. “We will engage an independent Project Management Team to ensure the hospital construction meets health standard requirements to attain the desired outcome and value for money.” Furthermore, a Project Steering Committee (PSC) will be made up of representatives from all key Government Departments from the Prime Minister and the National Executive Council, National Planning, Department of Works, CEPA will be ensured composed of Inter-government stakeholder agencies to have oversight over hospital project. “I hope to give our residents of NCD and all our people in the rest of the country another update once NEC approves loan finance mechanism we are proposing with the two Chinese Banks.” Meanwhile the NCD Level 5 Hospital is part of the National Health Plan 2022 to 2030 and all other health facilities in the City under control of NCD PHA will be upgraded and managed in alignment with this new level 5 Hospital. “It is vital for our Capital City and also for the rest of the country as it will enable us to also realize the National Referral and Teaching Hospital.”

Prime Minister (PM) James Marape visited the disaster-hit district communities of Angoram and Wosera-Gawi in East Sepik Province (ESP) during the Easter Sunday reassuring them of National Government support as they come to terms with the disaster effects including the disaster hit mid last Month. PM Marape from Lae, Morobe Province after a program in Lae flew on a helicopter to the district of Wosera-Gawi, and escorted by his wife Rachael Marape who is partly from ESP from Wosera-Gawi Disrict. Marape saw the community and assured his government’s support and made an aerial assessment of the damages. The people living along the Sepik River survived a major flooding but their food gardens drowned in continuous rain swelling the river, in addition a 6.9 magnitude earthquake hit the province, 38kms from Ambunti Government Station. PM Marape conveyed his sympathies to the victims and said K2million has been released by the National Treasury for immediate relief assistance while the ESP Government completes its full damage assessment report of impact disaster where the national government will step funds to assist in its restoration efforts. Over K10 million in total is distributed to all District Development Authorities (DDA) and local level Government (LLG), on top of the K2million disaster relief package. The distribution is as follows; K2 million each will be released to ESPG, Wosera-Gawi, Angoram. And K1million each to Ambunti Drekikir K1 million, Yangoru-Sausia K1 million, Wewak DDA, Vanimo DDA, Nuku DDA, and K500, 000 each to Maprik Urban and Gawi LLG. PM Marape stressed despite ongoing politics, we must put our differences aside and recognize the needs of our people in the affected areas, urging sepik members of parliament and the provincial government to collaborate with the national government to address this matter. “Government must go to communities at the earliest immediately. LLG and provincial governments and DDA are the arms of the national government on the ground to empower them to assist our people with immediate relief and care as well as next stage of restoration and development,” said Marape. PM also travelled to Gumine and Gembgl in Chimbu Province after a hazardous landslide occurred burying homes and food gardens and cutting off vial road services. The visit resembled a similar agenda to comfort and reassure communities of the government’s immediate relief assistance.

Five male suspects in a robbery incident in Waigani, await formal criminal charges laid on them after being referred to the NCD Armed Robbery Squad, following their arrest and recovery of a home-made gun early this morning.    Three of them - Wialu Kupa Kupsy from Southern Highlands Province, Jay Jay from Goilala in Central and Dominic Dom of Simbu - are common criminals already known to police, according to acting NCD Central Commander, Assistant Commissioner (ACP) Peter Guinness He said the other two are being identified and profiled today as they undergo their interview with the NCD Armed Robbery Squad. The five were arrested early this morning at one of Port Moresby’s hotspot crime area, Erima, as police were responding to a robbery incident that occurred around 2:30am at a lodge in Waigani. ACP Guiness said it was most likely the suspects were making their getaway after the robbery. As police conducted their response, they stumbled across a grey sedan, finally stopping it at Erima, however, one the five suspects, Dominic Dom, attempted to flee. He was wounded, then arrested along with his companions. Police then discovered the home-made pistol and a black bag inside the now impounded vehicle, which has been handed over to the NCD Motor Squad for investigations. ACP Guiness has praised his policemen for the swift response, resulting in the arrests and recovery.

After an incredible six-year journey, the Lae Tennis Club has become a symbol of hope for young Papua New Guinean tennis players. Glenn Cabasug, the club president and coach, has led the persistent efforts of the group in making tennis available to everyone in Morobe Province, regardless of background or ability to pay. The Lae Chinese Club gladly offered the required facilities for free junior coaching sessions, and the club, which was founded in 2018, immediately gained momentum by forming strategic connections with them. More than five hundred kids have participated in this program throughout the years, giving them an opportunity to improve their tennis abilities and realize their potential. Notwithstanding obstacles like limited facilities and finances, the club's persistent dedication to grassroots development has produced outstanding outcomes. Young talents have grew because of a strong junior development program that is funded by kind sponsors and volunteers; numerous participants have excelled in regional events. President Cabasug highlighted the transforming effect of accessibility and community support while reflecting on the club's path. "When you make the program accessible, if you have it free, if you get your volunteers in place, and if you're able to gather enough sponsors to come around and help support, then a lot of them will come," he remarked. The club's influence has been further demonstrated by recent accomplishments, as some junior players qualified for major competitions and even represented their country. Notable accomplishments include the selection of three talented athletes for this year's Junior Championships and the outstanding triumph of John Louie Domalaon in the under-14 division. President Cabasug's commitment and leadership have driven the club ahead in spite of the lack of full-time coaches in Lae, gaining the club recognition and support from institutions such as PNG Tennis and PNG Tennis Director, Barbara Stubbings. The club continues to offer priceless chances for skill development and exposure to elite competition through programs like the Panamex Open and team tournaments. While Lae Tennis Club celebrates its successes, it never hesitates in its commitment to developing young people in Papua New Guinea's talent pool, teaching them discipline, and encouraging a love of the game.

The Lae Tennis Club is a refuge of athletic brilliance and neighborhood friendship located in the city of Lae. This grassroots program, started in 2018 and led by Club President and Coach Glenn Cabasug, has become a change agent, providing young talent with a tennis career road to success. A straightforward but profound belief of the club is that talent has no bounds and that everyone should have access to opportunities laid the foundation of the club's philosophy. Inspired by this idea, President Cabasug and his staff have dedicated their lives to supporting young development, helping hundreds of aspiring tennis players realize their aspirations. "For us, it's about more than just tennis. It's about empowering our youth, providing them with opportunities, and steering them towards a brighter future," said President Cabasug. The club has continued to achieve amazing success in spite of many obstacles, such as limited facilities and funding. By means of creative collaborations with neighborhood institutions such as the Lae Chinese Club and generous contributions from sponsors and volunteers, the club has established the groundwork for a successful tennis community in Lae by providing complimentary coaching sessions and competitive tournaments. The success stories that have come out of the club's ranks are proof of the results of these efforts. Former students of the Lae Tennis Club have overcome hardship to represent their country and display their talent and tenacity on both local and international platforms. They come from disadvantaged roots. "Our goal is to not only produce skilled tennis players but also responsible and disciplined individuals who will make positive contributions to society," affirmed President Cabasug. The club's goal is still very much the same as it looks to the future and that is to keep growing, developing talent, and promoting an inclusive and high-achieving culture. The Lae Tennis Club's history endures and strengthens with time, demonstrating the transformational power of sport and the enduring spirit of common support. In the words of President Cabasug, "It's all about creating opportunities and providing a pathway for our youth. Tennis is just the beginning."

After dominating the 2024 Justin Tkachenko Super 9s (JT9s) Grand Final, the Sub City Raiders (SCR) Women’s Team now set their sights on the upcoming 13s in the 2024 Port Moresby South Rugby League (PMSRL) Season. The SCR Women’s team carry the title as the 2024 JT9s champions after defeating Vadavada United and receiving a cash prize of K5, 000. The SCR Team Manager, Mr. Oliver Konige told PNG HAUSBUNG that the focus now is to apply the same intensity in the JT9s, in the PMSRL season. “Though we had girls coming from different parts of the city to attend training and games, it has never blurred the main objective to win,” Mr. Konige said. “We are lucky to have a few girls who have experience in local and international level tournaments to come down and motivate the rookies.” Like the women’s team was very fortunate to welcome and play alongside the Papua New Guinea International Triple Threat of Touch Rugby, PNG Palais and PNG Orchids, Ms. Gemma Walker, who made a positive impact on the team. “The presence of Ms. Walker accelerated a boost in self-confidence and a positive mentality for the team throughout the tournament,” said Mr. Konige. Furthermore, Mr. Konige expressed his gratitude and appreciation to his hard working team and their Captain Angela Geno and Vice-Captain Gemma Walker for their attentiveness and leadership throughout the tournament. Mr. Konige concluded by stressing his belief that by being positive and working hard always pays off, as hard work beats talent every time.