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.

Violence broke out at Nawaeb Block on Monday afternoon following escalating tensions between two factions, prompting a strong police response. Lae Metropolitan Commander Chief Superintendent Chris Kunyanban confirmed that the conflict stemmed from an incident last weekend when a taxi belonging to a member of one faction was held up by criminals in the area. In retaliation, the taxi driver allegedly attacked and seriously injured one of the suspects. “The suspect was later rescued by his associates from Angau Hospital and, over the weekend, they gathered in numbers, demanding compensation from the other faction,” Kunyanban said. Attempts to settle the matter peacefully failed, leading to further violence on Sunday and Monday morning. During the confrontations, two individuals sustained pellet wounds but were treated and released from Angau Hospital. Police intervened on Monday morning to restore order, but by the afternoon, a surprise attack was launched against one of the factions, resulting in several homes being set on fire. Kunyanban said police responded swiftly, dispersing the criminal elements and their supporters, who fled into the mountains behind Birdwing. “The situation remains tense, but we have a heavy police presence in the area until tomorrow morning,” he said. “We advise the public to take precautions and avoid the location until the situation stabilizes.” Kunyanban added that police will conduct further checks in the area on Tuesday morning. He also urged residents to report any sightings of injured individuals who may have fled the scene. Anyone with information is encouraged to contact the police immediately.

Lae Metropolitan Commander, Chief Superintendent Chris Kunyanban, has commented on the recent court ruling involving 14 Unitech students found guilty of consuming alcohol in a public place. The students appeared before Lae District Court Magistrate Nasiling Bingtau on March 3, 2025, where they pleaded guilty to the charges. Magistrate Bingtau convicted the students and imposed a fine of K4,000 each. Alternatively, they could face a two-year sentence in the Industrial Handling Labour (IHL) program at Buimo Correctional Service. During sentencing, the Magistrate stressed the students' potential as future leaders, saying, "You 14 are the future leaders, but your actions do not reflect the behavior of educated individuals." "Your parents and guardians work hard to pay for your education, and this is how you repay them." Chief Superintendent Kunyanban responded by emphasizing the broader consequences of the students' actions, urging them to uphold discipline and responsibility. He mirrored the court's sentiment, adding, "These students must understand their responsibility as role models for the next generation." "Their conduct should reflect the values of respect and accountability, especially considering the sacrifices their families have made for their education." "This case underscores the importance of maintaining proper conduct, particularly for students at higher education institutions." One defendant was seen visibly emotional as he was escorted from the court, a poignant reminder of the serious repercussions of such actions. The Papua New Guinea University of Technology (Unitech) enforces a zero-tolerance policy regarding alcohol consumption on campus, with severe penalties, including possible expulsion, for any violations. The university has been approached for comment on the matter but has yet to respond at the time of publication. Chief Superintendent Kunyanban highlighted the role of the judicial system in shaping student behavior, noting that such penalties serve as a deterrent and reinforce the necessity of accountability in maintaining discipline and order in the community.