The Papua New Guinea National Weather Service has issued strong and gale force wind warnings for various coastal areas, effective from Sunday, August 4, 2024. These warnings come as the country braces for winds ranging from 25 to 47 knots over the next 24 hours, leading to rough and very rough seas. Strong Wind Warning: Strong winds of 25 to 33 knots are forecasted for the coastal waters stretching from the southern PNG/Indonesia border to Daru, Port Moresby, Milne Bay Province, and along the coastlines of West New Britain, Siassi, Finschhafen, Long Island, Karkar Island, Manam Island, and East Sepik. A trough from Huon Gulf to AROB and a lee trough from the PNG/Indonesia border through the Highlands, Gulf, Central, and Oro provinces are contributing to these conditions. Additionally, convergence zones near New Ireland and the Bismarck Sea suggest unsettled weather. Gale Force Wind Warning: A more severe gale wind warning has been issued for the western part of West New Britain, from Kaliai Kove to Cape Gloucester, Siassi, across Vitiaz Strait, Long Island, and the western sector of the Bismarck Sea. Here, very strong southeast winds ranging from 34 to 47 knots are expected, which could cause very rough seas and pose a significant danger. The weather patterns are further influenced by a high-pressure system over New South Wales, Australia, which is intensifying the wind conditions in these areas. All small crafts and boats are strongly advised to take necessary precautions or avoid going out to sea in these affected regions. Coastal villages in the warning areas are also urged to take measures to ensure safety and prevent accidents. The warnings will be reviewed and updated at 5:00 AM on Monday, August 5, 2024. For more details and safety guidelines, contact the National Weather Service or visit their official website.

Defending premiers Penrith have closed to within two points of the Storm at the top of the table after a tense 22-14 win in a Super Sunday football match against the Knights at BlueBet Stadium, with fine weather, and good ground conditions an exciting game. The Knights struck first with a try from Daniel Saifiti in the 6th minute, converted by Kalyn Ponga. The Panthers quickly responded, with Casey McLean scoring a try in the 9th minute, followed by a conversion by Nathan Cleary. The Panthers pulled ahead with another try by Izack Tago in the 25th minute, and Cleary's conversion extended the lead to 14-6 at halftime. In the second half, the Knights fought back with a try from Tyson Frizell in the 56th minute, and another conversion from Ponga narrowed the gap. However, Cleary sealed the Panthers' victory with a try in the 69th minute and a successful conversion, followed by a penalty goal in the 79th minute. The Knights managed a penalty goal by Ponga in the 65th minute, but it was not enough to catch up. The Panthers' precise kicking, with Cleary converting all three tries and two penalty goals, proved decisive. The game ended with the Panthers scoring three tries and the Knights two, leaving the final score at 22-14 in favour of the Panthers.

Prime Minister James Marape said the National Government is supposed to pay K100 million per year for Infrastructure Development Grants (IDG) and Business Development Grants (BDG) to Wafi-Golpu landowners and the Morobe Provincial Government. However, he said that now all this money has been disbursed. He said K34 million was released in 2021, K18 million in 2022, and K80 million in 2023. Prime Minister Marape revealed this on Friday, August 2nd, when presenting a K50 million dummy cheque to Morobe Governor, Luther Wenge. Governor Wenge said K25 million will go to the six landowner groups, and the other K25 million to the Morobe Provincial Government. The presentation and announcement took place in Lae, where Prime Minister Marape addressed landowners, Morobe Governor Luther Wenge, and a gathering of key figures, including Deputy Prime Minister and Lae MP John Rosso, State Negotiating Team Chairman Mr. Dairi Vele, Mineral Resources Authority Managing Director Mr. Jerry Garry, Kumul Mineral Holdings Chief Executive Officer Mr. Sarimu Kanu, Mineral Policy and Geohazards Management Secretary Mr. Harry Kore, and Morobe Provincial Administration. Mr. Vele and Mr. Garry provided comprehensive updates to the landowners on the progress of the Wafi-Golpu Mine, followed by remarks from Governor Wenge, Prime Minister Marape, landowner representative Mr. John Nema, and Deputy Prime Minister Rosso. Following the prime minister's revelation, he further assured that he will find out details as to the rest of the IDGs and BDGs. “I will get a full report of where all this money has gone to and present it to you, as a matter of transparency, because this is public money,” Prime Minister Marape said, further revealing that, “You have an envelope of about K1 billion programmed to come ahead of the project so you can prepare schools, youth, landowner companies, and others." "At the forthcoming Development Forum, we will indicate the business development grants, which will come ahead of the project like the infrastructure development grants.” He was referring to the Community Development Agreement (CDA) forum which will take place after a Mine Development Contract (MDC) agreement is reached between the State Negotiating Team and the Wafi-Golpu mine developers.

Wafi-Golpu landowners and the Morobe Provincial Government received a K50 million Infrastructure Development Grant (IDG) cheque presentation on Friday, August 2nd from the National Government's K1.2 billion commitment to IDGs and Business Development Grants (BDGs) for Wafi-Golpu landowners. Prime Minister James Marape who presented the K50 million IDG said this is not 'free money', as the funds are intended for infrastructure projects in the six impacted areas and the province and urged Morobe Governor Luther Wenge to divide the money fairly between landowner groups and the provincial government. Monies will only be released once identified infrastructure projects are agreed on, according to the prime minister. Governor Wenge announced K25 million will be for the six landowner groups - Babuaf, Hengambu, Yanta, Wampar, Butibam, and Wagang – while K25 million would be allocated to the Morobe Provincial Government. The presentation and announcement took place in Lae city, where Prime Minister Marape addressed landowners, Morobe Governor Luther Wenge, and a gathering of key figures, including Deputy Prime Minister and Lae MP John Rosso, State Negotiating Team Chairman Mr. Dairi Vele, Mineral Resources Authority Managing Director Mr. Jerry Garry, Kumul Mineral Holdings Chief Executive Officer Mr. Sarimu Kanu, Mineral Policy and Geohazards Management Secretary Mr. Harry Kore, and Morobe Provincial Administration. Mr. Vele and Mr. Garry provided comprehensive updates to the landowners on the progress of the Wafi-Golpu Mine, followed by remarks from Governor Wenge, Prime Minister Marape, landowner representative Mr. John Nema, and Deputy Prime Minister Rosso. Following Governor Wenge's announcement, the Prime Minister urged them to agree on what projects are important to the project areas so that landowner companies participate. “These projects are in the mountains (Babuaf, Hengambu, and Yanta), down to the valleys (Wampar), and to the sea (Butibam and Wagang)," said the Prime Minister, further stating, "I want all of you to agree on projects that you want to be funded so that monies can be released!" "I want the landowner companies to build roads, classrooms, put up power lines to bring in power, and other development.”

Prime Minister James Marape has confirmed that the State Negotiating Team (SNT) is in advanced talks with Wafi-Golpu mine developers, Newmont and Harmony, to finalize the Mine Development Contract (MDC). This step is crucial for the timely issuance of the Special Mining Lease (SML), enabling the mine's development to proceed. Marape made this announcement during a meeting in Lae with key stakeholders, including Morobe Governor Luther Wenge, Deputy Prime Minister and Lae MP, John Rosso, SNT Chairman Dairi Vele, Mineral Resources Authority (MRA) Managing Director Jerry Garry, KMHL CEO Sarimu Kanu, and other officials. They provided updates on the Wafi-Golpu project, highlighting the urgency of finalizing agreements. Governor Wenge and landowners expressed a strong desire for a swift SML issuance and for the commencement on the mine. In response, Marape requested the nomination of a representative from the Morobe Provincial Government to join the SNT for the final negotiations with the developers. “We are now going through exchanging notes with Newmont and Harmony for the MDC,” Marape explained. “The MDC will form the basis for the SML to be issued. They have given us their views; we have also provided ours." "I have instructed our team to move fast. Next Tuesday, we’ll meet to finalize the MDC." "After that, we move to the SML.” Marape emphasized that once the SML is issued, Newmont and Harmony will have 30 months to make a Final Investment Decision (FID) for the mine's development. The Prime Minister also addressed the status of Infrastructure Development Grants (IDGs) for Wafi-Golpu, clarifying that these funds are reserved for infrastructure projects, not as free money for landowners. He noted the importance of ensuring proper use and accountability. In a prior statement on July 23rd, Marape highlighted the ongoing negotiations' significance, noting that the state, through Kumul Mineral Holdings Ltd (KMHL), aims to secure a 30% stake in the joint venture, with 10% allocated to the Morobe Provincial Government and landowners. “This milestone achievement sets an important precedent for resource projects in our country,” Marape said, referring to the state's 55% share of economic benefits from the project. He assured them that finer details would be discussed with landowners. Marape also mentioned the ongoing focus of the MRA on the Community Development Agreement (CDA) with Wafi-Golpu landowners, emphasizing that consultations would proceed after completing discussions with Porgera stakeholders.

In an exciting first day of the historic Santos women's rugby league competition at the Santos National Football Stadium in Port Moresby, the Mt Hagen Eagles delivered a crushing 26-4 victory over the ENB Rabaul Gurias. The Eagles established dominance early, leading 8-0 at halftime and continuing their onslaught in the second half. The Gurias struggled to keep pace, managing only four points. In the second match of the Santos National Women’s Rugby League Competition, the Lae Snax Tigers narrowly defeated the Moni Plus NCDC Port Moresby Vipers, with a final score of 14-10. The Tigers took an early lead, going into halftime at 10-0. The Vipers rallied in the second half but fell short by four points. Today's matches are part of the inaugural Santos Cup, a significant event in Papua New Guinea’s rugby league calendar, featuring the nation’s first-ever National Women’s Rugby League Competition. Round 1 of the Santos Women's Competition ended today with the Central Dabaris thrashing the Bintagor Goroka Lahanis, 14-nil. The tournament, featuring six teams, aims to showcase female talent and expand opportunities in the sport. PNGRFL Chief Executive Officer Stanley Hondina in an earlier statement had hailed the event as a historic moment, stating that this competition opens a new pathway for women in rugby league. In that same statement, Santos Country Chair – PNG, Leon Buskens, also expressed pride in supporting the Santos Cup, emphasizing the company's commitment to empowering women and girls through sports. The competition will continue its other rounds with matches across various locations and culminate in a grand final on September 15, 2024.

The Commission of Inquiry, chaired by Justice Elenias Batari, continued its in-depth examination of the January 10, 2024, protest by Papua New Guinea police during its hearings on Friday, August 2, 2024. The focus of the inquiry is to uncover the causes of the protest, which saw police officers gathering at Unagi Oval to demonstrate against salary cuts. The investigation aims to determine whether top officials had prior knowledge of the protest and to explore the underlying issues that led to the unrest. During Friday's hearing, Deputy Commissioner of Police - Special Operations - Donald Yamasombi, who was on duty that day, provided detailed testimony regarding the protest. Yamasombi explained that he first became aware of the protest through intelligence reports, which indicated that officers were rallying due to salary reductions. In addition to examining the protest, the inquiry also focused on the operations of the Sensitive Investigation Board (SIB). Lead investigator Mr. Pondros Kaluwin questioned Yamasombi about the SIB’s role within the police force. The SIB is tasked with overseeing investigations involving constitutional and statutory office holders, the press, and national security matters. Kaluwin inquired about the legal basis for the SIB, and Yamasombi confirmed that its establishment is supported by Section 198 of the constitution, which outlines the powers of the police commissioner for effective control and administration of the force. Yamasombi explained that the SIB reviews complaints before investigations begin to ensure there is merit in the allegations. Complaints are initially assessed and, if deemed significant, are brought to the SIB’s attention for further scrutiny. The board's role is to ensure that investigations are justified and conducted appropriately. Kaluwin also discussed the history of the SIB and its predecessor committees, noting the changes that occurred with the appointment of new commissioners. The Commission's findings will be crucial in understanding the January 10 protest and improving police management and investigative procedures. The inquiry, which continues next week, aims to provide a comprehensive account of the events and address any administrative or procedural issues within the Royal Papua New Guinea Constabulary.

The Commission of Inquiry into the Royal Papua New Guinea Constabulary, chaired by Justice Elenias Batari and assisted by former Public Prosecutor and lead investigator Mr. Pondros Kaluwin, delved deeper into the January 10, 2024 protest during its eighth day of hearings on Friday, August 2nd. The inquiry focuses on uncovering the circumstances surrounding the protest by police personnel at Unagi Oval, including whether top police officials had prior knowledge of the event and the underlying causes of the unrest. On January 10, 2024, a significant protest occurred involving members of the Royal Papua New Guinea Constabulary (RPNGC) at Unagi Oval. The inquiry aims to determine if the protest was sparked by a salary glitch and whether it was prompted by official directives. It will also explore the involvement of the Human Resources Division and the Police Association, and whether they were aware of the potential impact of salary adjustments. Deputy Commissioner of Police – Special Operations, Donald Yamasombi, who was acting in his role on that day, provided detailed testimony during the second part of the inquiry on Friday, August 2nd. Yamasombi explained that he first became aware of the protest from intelligence reports around 9 a.m. on January 10. The reports indicated that police officers were gathering at Unagi Oval to protest salary cuts. Yamasombi described how he responded to the situation by sending intelligence officers to investigate the protest further. He learned that many officers, some in uniform and others in police vehicles, were demanding explanations for the pay cuts. This led Yamasombi to consulting with the acting police commissioner, Dr. Philip Mitna, and the police minister, as the Police Commissioner, David Manning, was on leave. When the situation escalated, with officers moving towards the parliament and Manasupe House, Yamasombi attempted to address the crowd but faced resistance. Stones, sticks, and bottles were thrown at him, leading him to withdraw and seek additional security support. He arranged for the Special Services Division (SSD) Mobile Squads to be deployed to Manasupe House to secure the building, as the crowd had started to burn vehicles outside. Yamasombi noted that by the time he returned to Unagi Oval later in the day, the crowd had largely dispersed. He found only a few officers remaining at the location. Recognizing the need to restore order, Yamasombi coordinated with the divisional commander for NCD/Central, Mr. Anthony Wagambi, to ensure a police presence in the city's suburbs to manage the ongoing unrest, which included looting and riots. The Commission's investigation seeks to address several critical questions. It will explore whether the protest was conducted following legal processes for industrial disputes and whether top management within the RPNGC was aware of the protest beforehand. Additionally, the inquiry aims to identify any individuals or groups who may have incited or planned the unrest and to assess the effectiveness of the measures taken by police management to prevent the protest. The Commission will also evaluate the responses and actions of the police force during the unrest, including the administrative and potential legal actions against those involved. The findings will be crucial in understanding the root causes of the protest and determining appropriate measures to address any lapses in management or operational procedures within the RPNGC. As the inquiry continues, it aims to provide a comprehensive account of the events of January 10 and ensure accountability for those involved in the planning, execution, and management of the protest and subsequent unrest.

Finschhafen MP and Alternative Prime Minister Nominee Rainbo Paita has expressed his disappointment with Prime Minister James Marape’s response to the increasing violence in Papua New Guinea. Paita criticized Marape for only condemning certain incidents, such as the recent killing of a Chinese national in Wau, Morobe Province, while ignoring others. "While I also expressed my deepest sympathy over the tragic incident in Wau, I must remind the PM that his condemnation must also apply to ALL acts of violence and terror spreading across the country and take decisive action." He highlighted the lack of response from Marape to the massacre in Angoram, East Sepik, where thugs killed over 20 people with bush knives and homemade weapons. Paita emphasized that the PM has shown no outrage or plan to address such atrocities. Paita noted the daily reports of brutal violence across the country, including in Enga and Hela provinces, and the disturbing trend of these killings being recorded and shared on social media. He urged Marape to take the law-and-order crisis seriously and ensure the safety of citizens and foreign nationals. "The PM must stop treating domestic massacres, slaughters, and torture like it’s normal."

The Papua New Guinea Citizenship and Immigration Service has announced a temporary shutdown of its Border Management System (BMS) this weekend to facilitate a technical upgrade. The shutdown commenced at 4:00 pm on Friday, 2nd August 2024, and will continue until Sunday, 4th August 2024. During this period, visitors and sponsors will be unable to access the online visa platform to submit visa applications. The shutdown is expected to last for 48 hours, with normal online services resuming on Monday, 5th August 2024. The PNG Citizenship and Immigration Service apologised for any inconvenience caused to travel plans during this upgrade. They advise anyone experiencing technical or travel-related issues during the shutdown to contact them via email at itteam@immigration.gov.pg and newentries@immigration.gov.pg. This upgrade aims to improve the efficiency and reliability of the BMS, ensuring better service delivery for all users.

Two male suspects are in police custody after being arrested in connection with the murder of a French national, near Bonabona Island in the Suau-Alotau District, Milne Bay, prompting condemnation from Police Commissioner, David Manning. "There can be no excuse for this type of opportunistic and pathetic crime!" "This man was traveling through our country and was attacked by cowards," said Commissioner Manning. The two suspects were arrested on Friday, July 26th, following the murder. Police allege that the French national was murdered on his vessel on July 26th, and the yacht was sunk with the body onboard. While the suspects remain in custody, investigations continue, with efforts underway to retrieve the body from the sunken vessel. Commissioner Manning assured that those responsible will face justice, as police maritime units focus on community safety. In a statement, Commissioner Manning revealed that the National Government is in talks with the French Government over the incident

Two police officers from the National Capital District (NCD) were arrested and charged in Balimo, Western Province last week for possessing unlicensed firearms. The officers, one a regular member stationed at Hohola and the other a reservist, were detained on July 22, 2024, according to Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP) Perou N’Dranou of Border Command. The officers had arrived in Balimo on a Tropic Air flight and were questioned by local police. “The two officers on arrival when met by the officers at Balimo told the local policemen that they were following a black flight that was coming in from Western Australia to Bali in Indonesia and then would go to Western province,” ACP N’Dranou said. Further questioning revealed that the firearms they were carrying were not licensed, which they said were private guns, but then could not provide licenses. “The reservist then told the local policemen that they were following up on some past cases,” N’Dranou added. The arrest was confirmed by NCD Metropolitan Superintendent Silva Sika, who noted that the officers had travelled without authorization. The police officers from Western Province also confirmed with NCD Metropolitan Superintend Silva Sika that the police officers were based in NCD and went there without any authorization. “Once again I am warning RPNGC members from other commands are not authorized to travel to the Border command unless approval is given by the Divisional Commander," said N'Dranou. "In the pretext of performing legitimate police businesses, members are involved in illegal activities, or sponsored by people with illegal motives." " That will have to be stopped immediately!" "I am also calling on other Divisional Commanders and their Provincial Police Commanders to take stock of the members under their commands." "We all need to prevent such illegal arrangements by members who are easily influenced to get involved in illegal activities that would benefit them; in other words, using the Police for self gains/benefits." "All PPCs and PSCs (Police Station Commanders) from the Border command had been directed to apprehend Police officers travelling to their provinces without approval from their Divisional Commanders.”