Martha LOUIS

The Assmambu community, located at Lae city's back road, held a restoration ceremony just recently, marking a renewed effort to combat crime and foster unity. The event was attended by Lae Police Chief Inspector James Luan and members of the Back Road community. The ceremony signified a commitment to strengthen local ward structures and encourage collaboration between the community, the newly appointed Assmambu Chairman, and Ward 12 Councilor. The Lae District Peace & Good Order Committees (LDPGOC) also pledged their support to enhance security and stability in the region. LDPGOC Chairman, Yaxs Tugula highlighted the significance of community involvement in ensuring a safer environment for all. "Despite the challenges we've faced in the past, we now have a chance to come together and transform the image of Assmambu. Every community member plays a part in reporting crime and supporting peace efforts. This is the only way to create a peaceful environment for our families," Tugula said. Chief Inspector Luan praised the initiative and underscored the importance of cooperation between law enforcement and the local community. "Making Assmambu and Back Road safer isn't solely the responsibility of the police. Everyone needs to step up, report crimes, and collaborate with peace committees. A united community is our strongest deterrent to crime," Luan stated. A community spokesperson called on the new Assmambu Chairman to implement strategic plans aimed at removing the area's reputation as a crime hotspot. The ceremony concluded with a shared commitment to change the mindset of the community and set an example for younger generations. Ahi LLG Ward 10 Councilor, Wenti Mineva also emphasized the need for establishing By-Laws in collaboration with the Assmambu community and local landowners. "Anyone who breaches these By-Laws will face strict eviction from Lae City, those who cannot live peacefully will be sent back to their place of origin," Mineva stated.

Nineteen (19) escapees are still at large in the Morobe province following a daring escape from a police station in the city of Lae, the country's industrial hub. Initially, twenty (20) inmates escaped from the Lae Central Police Station cell this week after cutting through a wire barrier using a smuggled axel. Authorities have since recaptured one escapee near the oil market downtown, while 19 remain at large. Lae Metropolitan Commander Chief Superintendent Chris Kunyanban confirmed the breakout and suggested that the escape was probably planned over some time. “The axel was smuggled into the cell and used to cut through the wire barriers. It was not a one-night job—it took time before they made their move,” Kunyanban said. He added that the breakout occurred between midnight and 2 p.m., during a shift change. “Our officers were on duty, but cell checks are conducted at two-hour intervals. The inmates knew the routine and used that window to escape,” he explained. Kunyanban also raised concerns about the overcrowded and outdated detention facility, a cause for concern for police as it poses risks of disease outbreaks and breakouts. “The cells were originally built to hold around 60 to 70 detainees, but we now house more than 100 at a time. It’s clear that we need better infrastructure to prevent such incidents,” he said. Police are verifying the names and charges of the escapees before releasing further details. Kunyanban has urged the public to assist in locating the fugitives, emphasizing that their recapture is a matter of public safety. The investigation into how the axel was smuggled in and whether security lapses contributed to the escape, is ongoing.

The Rotary Club of Lae Huon Gulf continues to deliver vital community projects but faces significant challenges, particularly in transportation and logistics. Club President Piero Banchetti said moving essential donations, such as desks for rural schools, remains one of the biggest obstacles. “The biggest challenge is transport and logistics to move things such as desks to rural schools,” Banchetti said. To overcome this, he said the club has maintained arrangements where recipients organize their own transport, ensuring that donations reach their intended destinations. “It’s a partnership between us and the recipients. We provide the resources, but they need to take responsibility for transportation,” he said. Despite these difficulties, the club remains committed to its mission and continues to assess the impact of its past projects. “We have received feedback from recipients on how our projects have helped them. We revisit schools to see how our assistance, such as desks, has benefited students,” Banchetti said. He added that while transportation challenges persist, the club is always looking for ways to improve logistics and expand its reach.

The Lae District Netball Association (LDNA) has successfully concluded its preseason games, setting the stage for the upcoming 2025 season. LDNA Games Coordinator (GC) Josephine Ila expressed gratitude to all participating teams, officials, and supporters, highlighting the preseason's role in trials, grading, and attendance assessment. “I have graded teams into divisions based on their results, strength, development, and participation throughout the preseason,” Ila stated. She acknowledged the overwhelming interest from teams, which led to adjustments in playing time to accommodate as many as possible. Reflecting on the preseason, Ila described it as both “fun and hectic,” welcoming new and returning players. She extended special thanks to her team, including Mea Sequira and Salomie Singake, for their dedication, as well as the umpires, scorers, and executive members who ensured smooth operations. “All in all, it was great to see the netball courts full again, and I hope we can work together to make the proper season a big success,” she said. With the preseason now complete, LDNA executives will finalize plans for the upcoming fixtures and competition format. The association looks forward to an exciting and competitive 2025 netball season.

Ten survivors of a recent sea ordeal near Tabalip Point, Rai Coast, are in desperate need of food, fuel, and transportation as they recover and prepare to return home. The Madang Rapid Response Network (MRRN) is calling on the public, businesses, and government authorities to step in and provide urgent support. MRRN Director John Newton Ariku said the survivors lost everything at sea and require immediate assistance. “These people have gone through a traumatic experience and now face the challenge of rebuilding their lives. They need food, fuel, and logistical support to return home safely.” Although clothing donations on Sunday and Monday have provided some relief, food supplies remain critically low, leaving the survivors in urgent need of daily meals. Four survivors, including the boat owner, have undergone trauma counseling, with additional sessions planned. A mother and her one-year-old infant, who were previously admitted to Modilon General Hospital’s Ward 4, left due to a lack of a guardian and basic necessities and are now staying with relatives. The boat engine has been repaired, but the group still requires zoom fuel to complete their journey home to Saidor Station. MRRN’s response vehicle also needs diesel to continue transporting survivors for medical check-ups, counseling, and other logistical needs. Ariku said MRRN has been providing as much assistance as possible, but further support is essential. He called on the Rai Coast District Administration, Madang Provincial Government, and other authorities to take immediate action. “We cannot do this alone. These survivors need food, clean water, and fuel for their journey home. Any assistance, no matter how small, will make a difference." Donations of rice, tinned fish, biscuits, bottled water, and financial contributions to cover essential costs are urgently needed. For those willing to help, MRRN can be reached at Vodafone: +675 8200 1628 or Digicel: +675 7056 0522.

A 27-year-old man has been apprehended by Madang police after issuing death threats to Madang Governor Ramcy Pariwa and Acting Provincial Administrator Daniel Aloi through a social media post that went viral. The post, which surfaced on the Madang Town Updates page on March 17, 2025, featured images of semi-automatic rifles and a warning to the officials, threatening them with violence should they take office. The post, originating from Ward 09 in the Madang Local Level Government area, rapidly gained traction on social media, raising alarm across the province. Accompanying the threat were photographs of weapons allegedly connected to ongoing tribal conflicts in the Highlands. Madang Provincial Police Commander, Acting Superintendent Robert Baim, characterized the incident as a severe threat to both local and national security. “This is a serious matter that not only jeopardizes the safety of our provincial leaders but also destabilizes the peace of Madang Province. We are handling this case with the highest priority,” Acting Superintendent Baim stated. PPC Baim also called for caution in social media use. “I urge everyone to act responsibly when posting on social media. There are laws in place to govern what we share online. We should aim to spread information that benefits the community. Such threats will not be tolerated, and the person responsible will face strict consequences,” he added. The individual behind the post, Mark Gasap, a resident of Wabag District in Enga Province, was arrested by the Madang Transnational Crime Unit (TCU) and National Criminal Intelligence Unit (NCIU) on the morning of March 18, 2025. Gasap was taken into custody at approximately 5:30 AM at his residence in Saicak Simbu Lodge, Madang. Gasap faces charges under the Cyber Crime Act and the Counter Terrorism Act, as his actions are considered genuine and immediate threats. The authorities have emphasized the gravity of the situation, especially following recent administrative changes in the province. A court ruling on March 7, 2025, saw Mr. Aloi assume the role of acting Provincial Administrator, which has reportedly sparked some local tensions. “While the shift in administration may have caused unrest, there is no room for violent threats in our country. We will ensure the law is enforced, and those who threaten our leaders or the safety of our people will face the full legal consequences,” said Baim. The arrest is viewed as a prompt and necessary response to what is regarded as a threat to national security. Gasap remains in custody, awaiting further legal proceedings. As the investigation continues, local authorities urge the public to stay calm and report any suspicious activities to the police.

Madang Provincial Police Commander (PPC), Acting Superintendent Robert Baim, has pledged to uphold law and order while ensuring a smooth leadership transition in the province. Speaking at the recent welcome ceremony for the newly appointed Madang Provincial Administrator Mr. Daniel Aloi, Mr. Baim said he respects the National Executive Council’s (NEC) decision to appoint Mr. Aloi. “I am from this land, but I will follow the law and do what is right. My actions will be properly recorded so that my successor can understand my decisions as PPC,” he stated. Baim affirmed his support for the government’s directives, emphasizing that NEC, as the country’s highest authority, had made its choice. “If the NEC has decided that Daniel Aloi should take this role, then that is final,” he said. He also thanked the people of Madang for their cooperation in maintaining peace and security. “Keeping Madang safe is a shared responsibility,” Baim added. Reflecting on his tenure since 2023, he acknowledged the province’s challenges but described Madang as strong and resilient. “This province is like a giant, and we must continue working together to uphold its strength,” he concluded.

Two women have been arrested and charged under Papua New Guinea’s counter-terrorism law following violent clashes in the Gampo area of Lae. Lae Metropolitan Chief Superintendent Chris Kunyanban said the women were accused of inciting violence, which led to destruction and attacks on innocent people. "This is the first time we are applying the counter-terrorism law in such a case.” “We want to set a precedent and ensure people follow the rule of law," Kunyanban said. The suspects are currently in custody at Buimo Prison, awaiting trial.

Netball in Lae city is picking up pace as the Lae District Netball Association prepares for its season proper, despite facing limitations in court availability. Games Coordinator Josephine Ila acknowledged the strong interest from teams but said space remains a challenge. "Right now, we only have two courts to accommodate the growing demand, which isn’t enough for all activities. But the competition is what the netball community in Lae is eager for." She added that outdoor courts are still unavailable, with the Lae City Authority expected to advise when they will be fit for use. With no major changes in the competition structure, Ila highlighted the role of experienced players and volunteers in keeping the sport alive and mentoring young athletes. "It’s just veterans and long-time supporters like me stepping in to push the game forward and develop the young talents we have." As Lae prepares to host the National Netball Championships later this year, efforts are underway to ensure courts, players, and officials are ready for the event. The pre-season competition has already seen a strong turnout, with both returning and new teams eager to take the court. Ila invited the public to visit the courts, interact with officials, and support the game as preparations continue.

Deputy Prime Minister and Lae MP John Rosso has called for unity, urging Papua New Guineans to reject racism and division. He condemned the spread of hate speech on social media, stressing the need for mutual respect in a country with over 800 languages and diverse cultures. “There will be challenges, but we must learn from each other,” Rosso said. He acknowledged concerns over crime and urban migration, stating that lawlessness is not confined to one region. As Minister for Lands, he reaffirmed efforts to formalize settlements and remove troublemakers from urban areas. Rosso praised law enforcement for cracking down on crime and highlighted partnerships between the government, Lae City Authority, and local businesses in maintaining order. He urged settlers to respect Ahi landowners and called on community leaders to prevent unrest. “Lae is a multicultural city. Follow the law, respect the culture, and live in harmony,” he said.

Netball lovers in Lae city are in for an exciting weekend as the Lae District Netball Association hosts a special tournament this Saturday, March 8, 2025, in celebration of International Women’s Day. This year’s theme, "Accelerate Action," focuses on promoting gender equality and supporting initiatives that empower women. Josephine Ila, the Games Coordinator for Lae District Netball Association, said the event is a platform to recognize women’s contributions both in sports and society. “We want to celebrate women and encourage them to keep striving for success. Netball is one way we can bring women together and inspire the next generation,” Ila said. Players and supporters are encouraged to wear purple to show their support for women’s empowerment. The Lae District Netball Association is inviting the community to attend, cheer on the teams, and take part in this important celebration of women in sports.

Police in Madang have arrested a suspect linked to an armed robbery involving the criminal group "3X Wantoks." The suspect was apprehended following a coordinated police operation. Madang Provincial Police Commander, Acting Superintendent Robert Baim, confirmed the arrest, stating that law enforcement agencies had been actively tracking the group responsible for a series of violent crimes. "The suspect was taken into custody after intensive police surveillance and intelligence gathering. We will not tolerate criminal activities that endanger the safety of our communities," Baim said. Authorities are continuing investigations and are working to bring the remaining members of the gang to justice. This arrest comes amid growing concerns over armed robberies in Madang, with police urging the public to report any suspicious activities that may assist in crime prevention efforts.