Illegal settlers in the National Capital District (NCD) are being warned that they face eviction if they continue to cause law and order problems. Acting NCD Metropolitan Superintendent, Mazuc Rubiang, issued this stern message to residents of the 8- Mile settlement following a violent clash on October 16th that left one man dead, and several others injured. During an open mediation held on Sunday, Superintendent Rubiang reminded the settlers that they do not have legal rights to the land they occupy and will be forcibly removed if they continue to engage in criminal activity. He acknowledged the challenges people face when moving from their home provinces to the city but stressed the importance of obeying the law. Supt. Rubiang said, “The majority of the city’s law and order issues are caused by the residents of the settlements.” According to police reports, 8 Mile settlement has been identified as one of the hotspots for crime in the city. Both police and Moresby North East MP John Kaupa confirmed this, stating that evictions will begin for those illegally occupying state land. Senior Inspector Gabriel Kini, Commander of Gordons Police Station, said it is time to take action against these illegal settlers, warning that force may be used to remove them. “When people relocate from the village to the city, law and order problems also increase,” said Inspector Kini. “The police will now use force to evict people because they are settling illegally on state land and posing threats to law and order.” MP Kaupa, who attended the mediation session at 8 Mile, also emphasized that the land is State property and that settlers must behave or face eviction. He was there to help mediate and restore peace after the fight, which erupted following a robbery incident. The conflict on October 16th reportedly began when a man from Marawaka was caught stealing from a church and homes in the area. He was beaten by those he had robbed but managed to escape after being taken to the hospital. Following his return, his tribesmen confronted those he had stolen from, demanding compensation, which led to further violence and the eventual death of one man. Both MP Kaupa and the police warned residents that further disturbances will not be tolerated and could lead to eviction from the settlement.

Prime Minister James Marape held a press conference upon his return from Indonesia, where he attended the inauguration of the country’s new President, Prabowo Subianto. Marape’s visit was not just ceremonial, but part of ongoing efforts to deepen bilateral ties between Papua New Guinea (PNG) and Indonesia, focusing on trade, energy, and education. Marape highlighted the significance of Indonesia as a regional powerhouse, saying, "Indonesia is the 10th biggest democracy in the world." He emphasized that the inauguration was attended by leaders from various countries, including Solomon Islands, South Korea, China, and Russia, showcasing Indonesia’s growing international influence. During his bilateral meeting with President Subianto, Marape affirmed PNG's commitment to maintaining and expanding the cooperation established during the tenure of outgoing President Joko Widodo. "We maintained and affirmed the work that myself and outgoing President Joko Widodo have started. Under President Widodo, we have had healthy bilateral exchanges," Marape said. The discussions covered a wide range of sectors, from trade and investment to energy and education. One of the key areas of collaboration is electricity supply, with PNG planning to supply energy to Indonesia. Marape said, "We saw frameworks we worked through for a change in electricity generation supply, security cooperation, and all other related issues." The Prime Minister noted that this collaboration will be strengthened under President Subianto’s administration, particularly in economic development. Marape also acknowledged Indonesia’s experience in managing land borders, pointing out that Indonesia shares land borders not just with PNG, but also with Malaysia and Timor-Leste. This experience, he said, allows both nations to engage in productive dialogues about cross-border issues, including security and economic cooperation. One sensitive issue that came up during the bilateral talks was West Papua. Marape revealed that President Subianto sought his counsel on addressing issues in the region. He shared that his advice was rooted in respecting the land and cultural heritage of the people in West Papua. "Our advice to him was to give respect to their land and their cultural heritages. Land and culture of the people on the other side is respected," Marape explained. He added that both countries are committed to finding peaceful resolutions to these issues, with Indonesia offering amnesty to those who have clashed with law enforcement in West Papua. On the economic front, Marape underscored the importance of Indonesia as a trading partner, especially for PNG’s products and educational exchanges. "Indonesia has a big market. A big market for trade and commerce in Indonesia," he said, noting that PNG is ready to tap into these opportunities. The two countries signed an education Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) that will see over 2, 000 PNG students studying in Indonesia, particularly in technical and vocational fields. The Prime Minister further stressed that these international trips are not for leisure but for securing economic growth for PNG. "It’s the economic growth agenda of our country. So we make those travels with a targeted intention in mind," he said, referring to the expansion of markets in Southeast Asia, particularly in sectors like food and energy. "PNG stands ready to supply you food and supply you energy," Marape told the Indonesian president. Marape reiterated extending an invitation to President Subianto to attend PNG’s 50th Independence anniversary next year, which he said the Indonesian leader graciously accepted.

During a press conference following his return from Indonesia last night in Port Moresby, Prime Minister James Marape addressed concerns over allegations of land grabbing near Caution Bay, a key area close to the PNG LNG Plant site in Central province. Hiri-Koiari MP Keith Iduhu had claimed that the government had entered a secret deal, allowing a foreign-owned company to acquire land in the area. These allegations have raised fears among landowners and the public about the potential loss of customary land. Marape firmly denied these claims and reassured the public, saying, "There will be no land grabbing." He stressed that the government has no intention of taking land unfairly, either for business or other commercial purposes. Marape added, "Let me give assurance to the people. There is no land grabbing. If there is work that needs to take place, if it is State land, those lands are state land, then they are fine." The Prime Minister further explained that if any development requires the use of customary land, the government will follow legal procedures to ensure landowners are treated fairly. He emphasized that the government does not believe in purchasing land outright, especially when it is needed for commercial purposes. Instead, the government prefers leasing arrangements, which allow landowners to retain their rights and benefit from the land's use. As an example, Marape highlighted the successful conversion of over 8,000 allotments in Roku, where landowners are now able to lease their land and earn money from it. "Just like we've done in Roku, where over 8,000 allotments are now being converted back to lease arrangements. Landowners are now having custodial title against land to be leased if they could get money for the lease." Marape acknowledged the importance of land in the country and reiterated that any development involving land will be done in partnership with local communities. He called on relevant authorities, including the Lands Department and the local government in Central Province, to work together to ensure that landowners are not sidelined or disadvantaged. "We work with the lands department, and we properly acquire, so our people are not disadvantaged." "Our people, who own land, are properly given fair recognition, and they are part of the business that is very important to us as landlords," he said. The Prime Minister also recognized the significance of Caution Bay and its surrounding areas as key industrial hubs for the country. These areas host important energy projects, and the government aims to work with all stakeholders to ensure development proceeds smoothly while respecting the rights of landowners. Marape's comments were aimed at reassuring landowners and the public that the government will take a balanced approach to land use, particularly in regions critical for economic development. His statements emphasized the government's commitment to protecting customary land and ensuring that landowners are not left out of the development process. "Our people are not pushed back from the unvalued land properties," Marape affirmed. Marape's remarks reinforced the government's stance on land ownership and its pledge to work collaboratively with landowners, ensuring fair treatment and involvement in the country’s economic development.

Investigations into police personnel at the National Centre of Training Excellence at Bomana last week involved in a heated discussion, which was captured in a video, and posted on social media. From what was recorded, the exchange relates to several recruits, allegedly not on the approved list, and allowed to join the training with this second batch of 2023 recruits that began training early October this year. Commissioner of Police, David Manning today issued a statement, advising that those involved have been suspended from their positions, pending the investigations, with the Deputy Commissioner of Police (Administration) tasked to examine allegations made during the heated exchange. His statement goes on to reveal that there will be a review of recent recruitment process. "I am aware of an unprofessional exchange between personnel at the National Centre of Training Excellence last week," Commissioner Manning said. "I have no tolerance for such unprofessional conduct by those involved in the section or training our future police officers". "Deputy Commissioner of Police (Administration) has been tasked with conducting a full review of recruitment activity and will determine if there has been any deviation from approved recruitment practices. "Suspension, dismissal from the Force, and criminal charges will be the end result for those involved if there is even the slightest truth to these allegations." "The two members at the centre of this incident have been suspended and will face disciplinary action for their disgraceful conduct. Should investigations reveal any ranking officer was present during this exchange, they will be dealt with for failing to exercise supervision of those under their command." "This behaviour by police personnel is totally unacceptable and I do not want those involved anywhere near recruits, who we are training to be committed to only the highest standards of professional conduct." A review headed by Deputy Commissioner of Police (Administration) will examine allegations of impropriety in selection processes raised in the unprofessional exchange and subsequent social media reporting. "Service in the RPNGC requires the highest levels of Integrity, Commitment and Accountability," Commissioner Manning said. "Any person found to have been improperly admitted to a recruit training program will be subject to immediate dismissal and criminal investigation. Any person found to have aided an improper admission will face dismissal and criminal prosecution". "Impartial recruitment processes are the foundation of a life of service in the RPNGC. On commencing our unprecedented recruitment drive in 2023, I directed the engagement of a professional recruitment agency to not only oversee our recruitment processes but also to work alongside our Administration wing." "The review by DCP Administration will examine all aspects of this recent recruitment process, including the conduct of those in our HR and Training divisions, the suitability of recruits, and the honesty of any professionals attesting to suitability." "If the Administration Wing is shown to be deficient in any manner, changes will be swift. If necessary, we will not hesitate to engage external HR or Training professionals to build on any identified shortcomings so that we get these fundamentals right". The Commissioner ended his statement stating that while this review is undertaken, recruits will be confined to Physical Training and Parade/Drill activity at the National Centre of Training Excellence.

Opposition Leader Douglas Tomuriesa has shared his views on Bulolo MP Sam Basil Junior's recent move to the government. Basil, now appointed as Vice Minister for Mining and Sports assisting the Prime Minister, had previously been part of the Opposition for nine months. Tomuriesa acknowledged Basil’s move and congratulated him on his new role. "We appreciate his time spent in the Opposition and his efforts toward what we believe was a good cause," said Tomuriesa. He emphasized that every member of Parliament has the right to make decisions based on their own beliefs, and the Opposition holds no hard feelings against Basil for leaving. Tomuriesa hopes that Basil’s move to the government will benefit the people of Bulolo. "We hope that Mr. Basil’s move proves helpful for his people, and given he knows what we’ve been advocating for, we hope he uses the Opposition's ideas to be a voice of reason within the government." Despite Basil’s departure, Tomuriesa remains focused on ensuring the government delivers results, rather than just appointing more positions. He stressed that adding more leaders does not always lead to better outcomes for the country. "Quality over quantity should always be the goal," Tomuriesa said, urging the government to show clear progress in their work.

The Papua New Guinea (PNG) Kumuls delivered an outstanding performance on Saturday night, defeating the Fiji Bati 22-10 in their Week 1 clash of the Pacific Championships at HFC Bank Stadium in Suva. The win marked a significant comeback for the Kumuls, who rebounded from a tough loss the previous week against Australia in the PMs XIII, by displaying a near-flawless game plan and showcasing their depth and resilience. PNG skipper Rhyse Martin expressed his pride in the team’s efforts, especially as they returned to Pacific soil for the first time in a while. "It's pretty special. We sang our team song, and just the passion in it, the boys got around each other through this week and executed a flawless game plan," Martin said during the post-match press conference. He highlighted that playing against a physical and skilled Fijian side was no easy task, but the Kumuls' ability to stick to their strategy for the full 80 minutes made the difference. The Kumuls' tactical focus was on tightening up their defense around the ruck, a lesson learned from their loss against Australia. Martin credited head coach, Jason Demetriou, for preparing the team to counter Fiji’s threat around the markers and ensuring they dominated the middle of the field. “We had a big ask of our middles to turn up and bring that energy, and for them to keep doing that for 80 minutes is the reason we got the result tonight,” he added. The Kumuls' victory was a team effort, with key contributions from players across the field. Robert Derby opened the scoring in the 17th minute, followed by tries from Judah Rimbu, Sylvester Namo, and Nene Macdonald. Martin was instrumental not only as captain but also in converting three of the four tries, adding crucial points to the scoreboard. Fiji's Semi Valemei and Maika Sivo managed to cross the line for the Bati, but the Kumuls' defensive structure held firm throughout the match, limiting Fiji’s chances and capitalizing on their own. Demetriou commended the team’s debutants, stating, “Four debutants tonight, no one blinked. Everybody owned their role. Like I said, the future is so exciting.” "These guys have the responsibility to wear the Kumul's shirt that's looked at by every person in the country. I don't think you'll find a better group to represent the shirt than the way these guys do. " Demetriou described the past 10 days before Saturday's game as a whirlwind for the squad, many of whom travelled from different parts of the world and had limited time to train together. Despite these challenges, the Kumuls gelled quickly, proving their potential. "We spoke before the game. There's no lack of passion for every player who puts on the Kumuls shirt. We want to put some process and tactics behind that passion, and I thought that was a great start tonight (Saturday)," Demetriou said. Looking ahead, Demetriou is optimistic about the Kumuls’ future as they prepare to face the Cook Islands next. The match will be crucial for PNG as they aim to build on their momentum and sharpen their gameplay. “We’ll enjoy this tonight, but we’ll also have a week off and assemble again for the Cook Islands week,” Demetriou added. The Kumuls will also be strengthened by the return of several key players who missed the game due to injury. Demetriou pointed out that this added depth would only enhance the team’s performance moving forward. “There are still half a dozen players that are unavailable through injury or just not available. So that’s something to look forward to in the future as well,” he said. Despite Fiji’s best efforts, including tries from Valemei and Sivo, the Bati struggled to find consistency in their game. Their conversion rate was low, with only one successful conversion out of two attempts, while PNG converted three out of four tries. Martin acknowledged the challenge of facing Fiji, praising their competitive spirit and the significance of the match for the PNG squad. "You know, we’ve been battling against them for a long time. We go toe-to-toe with them every time we play. And to do it here on their soil, it’s a special feeling," he said. The Kumuls will now focus on their next game, aiming to continue their winning streak and bring joy to their passionate supporters back in PNG. With momentum on their side, the team will be eager to showcase their talent once again in front of their home fans in Port Moresby. In a final reflection on the night’s victory, Martin summed up the emotions of the team: “To represent your country, especially Papua New Guinea... it’s the best place to represent in the world. Yeah, it is special just to beat Fiji.”

The Morobe Show 2024 was a success with a variety of fun activities, which ended on Sunday, October 20th. On Saturday afternoon, in front of a packed crowd at the Show Queen stage, 16-year-old Miss Ida Bernard was crowned the Morobe Show Queen. She is a Grade 9 student, attending a rural high school in the Markham district, and hails from Oro and Milne Bay provinces. An avid reader, who also loves gardening, she won the K1, 000 prize money, with cartons of Lae Biscuits noodles and biscuits which will be donated to her Wantoat High School. Miss Bernard encouraged other students in Morobe Province to take part in the Lae Biscuit Company Morobe Show Queen Knowlege content. "It gives a boost to your confidence in public speaking and overall self esteem in knowing our cultural heritage and the wonders of the environment that PNG has," said the well-spoken Miss Bernard, who hopes to become a lawyer one day. Meanwhile, the Pikinini Show title was given to 9-year-old Kaylor Sineka, who comes from Morobe and Enga provinces, and is a Grade-3 student from Omili Primary School in Lae city. "I created a hair bow and purse from the recycled wrappers collected by my classmates, and from the wrappers of my favourite Chicken Snax crackers that I always buy from my grandmother's canteen at Kamkumung village- we must keep our community clean and tidy from rubbish." She hopes to study Science in University in the future. Lae Biscuit company has been a strong supporter of the Morobe Show Queen Pagaent since 2006. The Contest aims to promote cultural and environmental knowledge among the young in Morobe Province and is open to contestants aged 9-22 years old in high school and universities and colleges. Participants took part in two rounds which featured recycled garments made out of Lae Biscuits noodles and biscuits, and the Traditional costume bilas. Each winner received a K1, 000 prize money with cartons of their Lae Biscuits noodles and biscuits donated to their school. Other winners won cash prizes and cartons of goodies to take back home to their families and communities.

Hiri-Koiari MP Kieth Iduhu has expressed outrage over an alleged illegal land grab at Caution Bay. He was shocked to learn the government secretly gave land near the PNG LNG site to a foreign company without informing local landowners. "As the Member for Hiri-Koiari District, I am deeply shocked and appalled to learn of the massive illegal land grabbing adjacent to the PNG LNG site at Caution Bay,” Iduhu said. He thanked former Prime Minister and Ialibu-Pangia MP Peter O’Neill for exposing the deal and expressed concern about how it was done. Iduhu raised several questions about the deal, including why land vital to locals was handed over for free to a foreign company, why locals were not informed, and why Deputy Prime Minister John Rosso used his powers to exempt the land from public advertisement. "Apparently, the company is now advertising their next project to turn the land into a luxury resort with golf courses and executive facilities. Is this another paper project aiming to entice our gullible government into blindly giving away our precious resources?” Iduhu asked. Iduhu demanded Prime Minister James Marape and Deputy PM Rosso explain the deal within seven days. He warned that he would pursue legal action if more evidence of wrongdoing surfaced. "My people are not spectators on their own land," Iduhu stated. "Under my watch, I will not let foreigners pillage our ancestral lands without due consideration to its people." He criticized the government for acting in secret and prioritizing corporate interests over the people’s rights. Iduhu called the deal “twisted and despicable” and vowed to fight for his people's land. "Why don’t the Prime Minister and his Deputy cut land deals in Tari or Lae? What gives you the right to bypass all relevant authorities just for your veiled interests?" "We will not be taking these revelations lightly."

Seven new Vice-Ministers were sworn in on the afternoon of Friday, October 18th at Government House. These new leaders will help key areas of the Government. Komo-Hulia MP Daniel Tindipu is now Vice-Minister for National Planning, whilst Bulolo MP, Sam Basil Junior will assist the Prime Minister in Sports and serve as Vice-Minister for Mining. Delta Fly MP Agena Gamai will oversee Forests as Vice-Minister, and Mul-Baiyer MP Jacob Maki is the new Vice-Minister for Police. Ijivitari MP, David Arore has been named Vice-Minister for Finance, Sumkar MP Alexander Orme will manage Petroleum as Vice-Minister, while Karamui-Nomane MP Francis Alua will take up the role of Vice-Minister for Justice and Attorney-General. These Vice-Ministers will support the Ministers of Government in their duties to help the people of Papua New Guinea. Prime Minister Marape said this is part of the Government’s plan to develop future leaders. Most of the Vice-Ministers are first-time MPs. Additionally, the Vice-Ministers are expected to be announced soon, with Kairiku MP Peter Isoaimo expected to be sworn in next week as Vice-Minister for Works.

The Royal Papua New Guinea Constabulary (RPNGC) will proudly support Pinktober 2024 to raise awareness about breast cancer and promote women’s health. The event takes place today, Friday, October 18th, at the Boroko Police Station in Port Moresby city. The day begins with a walk from Jack Pidik Park at 7:45 AM, led by RPNGC personnel and other participants, concluding at the Boroko Police Station. Commander Steven Francis, DCP Administration Philip Mitna, and senior officers will be present to show their support. The theme for the event is “No One Should Face Breast Cancer Alone.” From 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM, the Boroko Police Station front carpark will host the main event, featuring speeches, a prayer, and guest talks by Dr. Aina Anota and Sr. Delosi Eawetau, who will share their expertise on cancer. In addition to raising awareness, Pinktober-themed shirts and caps will be available for purchase, along with sausage sizzles. All proceeds from sales will go to the PNG Cancer Society to support women battling cancer across the country. Commander Francis said, “We are excited to unite for a great cause. Let’s make a positive difference for women battling cancer in our country.” RPNGC encourages everyone to come together in support of this meaningful initiative, showing solidarity for cancer awareness and helping raise much-needed funds. Join the RPNGC and help make Pinktober 2024 a success!

The Pomio District Development Authority (DDA) is continuing its bridge construction program this year, which started three years ago. So far, the DDA has completed six bridges in the district. Pomio MP and Health Minister Elias Kapavore praised the national government’s Connect PNG Program for supporting the district’s infrastructure needs. He noted that Pomio has around 50 major rivers requiring bridges due to its large land area. " "Every year, we must at least build a big bridge, between 60 and 100 meters, as well as a small bridge measuring between 30 - 40m," Kapavore said. The six completed bridges include the 35-meter Kepe Yet, 84-meter Toto, 95-meter Unung, 30-meter Ngelngel bridges, the redecking of the 76-meter Matale bridge, and the 45-meter Kilak bridge. Currently, two more bridges are under construction. The 40-meter Malop bridge will connect West Pomio and Central Pomio LLGs. The larger 240-meter Tolo bridge will link two oil palm blocks for Gilford Limited, part of the RH Group. The Tolo bridge, costing K9.9 million, will be co-funded by the DDA and Gilford. "The DDA will counter fund with K4.7 million while the company will cater for the balance of K5.2 million," Kapavore said. "The Tolo river is similar to Merai river but is much wider and faster as it consists of various river systems connecting from the mountains to the coast." The Tolo river, which connects the Melkoi and Mamusi Yana LLGs, poses challenges, especially during heavy rains. The bridge will be a hybrid, part steel and part Bailey bridge. Another major project, the Melkoi bridge, will also be a hybrid and is expected to be 200 meters long. "Initially, the Melkoi bridge was supposed to be 100 meters, but the Works Department’s scope now puts it at 200 meters," Kapavore added. Aside from bridges, the DDA is focused on road construction to improve connectivity in the district. Minister Kapavore said improving infrastructures for the LLGs in the district such as building bridges, is a key pillar of the district plan, based on connectivity, socio-economic empowerment and integral human development, and good governance. The Pomio DDA is also focused on road construction as part of enhancing connectivity in the district. "While work on the missing link along the south coast is still continuing, we are also constructing a road up to Kapkena in the Inland Pomio LLG, which is a new LLG," Minister Kapavore explained. "The LLG staff have already been recruited but are currently based at the Central Pomio LLG." "There's another important road under construction, leading to Mamusi One (1) which connects 10 wards, a health center, 4 aid posts and 4 primary schools and that is where I come from," he said.

The Royal Papua New Guinea Constabulary (RPNGC) is conducting a five-day workshop at Dixies Bungalow, Central Province, focusing on the Police Act Review and the roll-out of updated Constabulary Standing Orders (CSOs). The workshop, which began on Monday, 14th October and ends on 18th October 2024, involves senior officers from the Southern and Border Commands and the Police Regional Training Wing. The Assistant Commissioner of Policy and Planning, Rigga Neggi, explained that the workshop is “to consult members of the Constabulary on the review of the Police Act 1998” and roll out the fourth version of the CSOs, updated in 2022. Additionally, it aims to create awareness of the RPNGC Corporate Plan (2020-2030) and the importance of the Annual Management Report (AMR) while standardizing the RPNGC Activity Management Report format. Mr. Neggi stated that the goal is to establish “a clear and standardized framework of guidelines, procedures, and the principles of effective and lawful operation” of policing activities. Similar workshops will be held in Mt Hagen, Morobe Province, East New Britain, and Bougainville to cover all command regions of the country.