Madang Provincial Police Commander, Acting Superintendent Robert Baim, has called for stricter adherence to road safety measures following a truck accident near Naru Mountain on the Madang–Ramu Highway earlier this week. Baim said the accident highlights the dangers of overloading and unsafe practices by drivers, vehicle crews, and passengers. “Road safety begins with the driver and crew, but it also involves ensuring the vehicle is in good condition, the driver is alert, and loads and passengers are properly secured,” he said. The truck involved in the incident was reportedly overloaded with betel nut bags, with passengers sitting precariously on top of the cargo. “These kinds of practices often lead to unnecessary accidents. In this case, the overloaded truck and unsafe seating arrangements likely contributed to the injuries,” Baim explained. While details of the accident are still under investigation, Baim said police believe some passengers sustained serious injuries. It remains unclear how many people were affected and whether they were taken to a hospital in Madang or elsewhere. He also noted that some PMV owners and drivers make unsafe modifications to their vehicles, which increase the risk of accidents. “Such practices are not only illegal but also dangerous,” he said. Baim stressed that passengers also have a role to play in road safety. “If you see that a vehicle is overloaded, don’t get on it. It’s common sense,” he said, adding that cargo itself, such as the betel nut bags in this case, can often cause injuries during accidents. Police in Madang have been conducting road safety awareness campaigns to educate the public, but Baim said incidents like this show that more work needs to be done. He assured that an investigation is underway to determine the exact cause of the accident.

Member for Lae and Deputy Prime Minister, John Rosso, has dismissed calls to split the Lae Electorate, suggesting boundary realignment as a more practical solution. Rosso cautioned that creating new electorates would increase costs and administrative inefficiencies, diverting funds away from service delivery. Instead, he proposed extending Lae’s boundaries to include areas like Yalu, Igam, and up to the Erap River to ensure better services with fewer overheads. “More electorates mean more politicians and higher costs, but not necessarily better services. Realignment will provide the efficiency we need.” Rosso also expressed frustration over not being consulted on the matter, reaffirming his position against dividing Lae.

The Madang Provincial Police have been commended for ensuring peaceful and safe Christmas and Boxing Day celebrations across the province. Madang Rapid Response Network Online Group Administrator, Mr. John Newton Ariku, praised the efforts of PPC Madang, Acting Superintendent Robert Baim and his team for maintaining law and order during the festive season. “The police, under the capable leadership of PPC Baim, did an exceptional job ensuring safety and peace." "Their visible presence, quick responses, and proactive engagement with communities helped prevent criminal activities and fostered a safe environment for everyone to enjoy the celebrations,” Mr. Ariku said. He acknowledged the collective efforts of various stakeholders, including churches, community leaders, and the Community Policing Unit (CPU), who collaborated with law enforcement. “This success was a team effort." "Everyone played their part, and it shows how shared responsibility can create harmony in our communities,” he added. Mr. Ariku also highlighted key incidents handled by police, including their swift action to prevent a potential ethnic clash. He commended the public for their cooperation and improved behavior during the celebrations. As New Year’s celebrations approach, Mr. Ariku called for continued vigilance and collaboration between the police and community groups. “We fully support the police in their heightened patrols for the New Year." "Together, we can ensure celebrations remain safe and enjoyable for everyone,” he said. He concluded with a call for unity. "Let’s welcome the New Year with positive changes in our attitudes and work together for a brighter, safer Madang.”

Christmas and Boxing Day celebrations in Madang Province were reported as quiet and peaceful, with no major incidents recorded, according to Acting Superintendent Robert Baim, the Madang Provincial Police Commander. Superintendent Baim attributed the calm festivities to a strong police presence across the province, which deterred criminal activities and ensured incidents were quickly attended to. “Police were present everywhere, and this helped prevent crimes from happening. We managed to attend to all incidents reported,” he said. The police commander noted that the public showed improved behavior, with many demonstrating respect for one another by controlling loud music and lowering volumes by 10 p.m. He commended the community for their cooperation. Minor incidents involving homebrew consumption and drug abuse were reported, with offenders promptly apprehended and locked up. Additionally, police successfully defused a potentially violent ethnic clash between two groups from the Sepik settlement. Superintendent Baim expressed his gratitude to the people of Madang, both in rural and urban areas, for their efforts to maintain peace during the festive season. “I want to thank everyone for at least showing a change in our mindsets. I also take my hat off to all security forces, including police and Correctional Services officers, for ensuring our people celebrated without intimidation from individuals with ill intentions,” he said. The police commander also acknowledged the role of community leaders, the Community Policing Unit (CPU), and churches in supporting peace efforts. As New Year’s Eve approaches, Superintendent Baim urged the public to continue with the same spirit of unity and responsibility. He reminded residents to keep celebrations safe and to lower music volumes by 2 a.m. “Let us welcome the New Year with positive changes in our attitudes and work together for the development of ourselves and Madang as a whole,” he said. Madang police will maintain heightened patrols to ensure safety and order during the New Year’s celebrations.

Hidden Valley Mine is investing in sustainable farming to help local communities prepare for life beyond mining. "We know mining won’t last forever. That’s why we’re helping our people grow a future beyond gold and silver," said Esther Bill, Agriculture Program Supervisor. The mine provides seeds, tools, and training to farmers, teaching them skills such as coffee pruning, proper bean drying, and managing chicken farms. Local farmers, like the Nauti community, have formed cooperatives and are now roasting and selling their own coffee. The mine also helps farmers connect with buyers through events like the Morobe Show. Looking ahead, Hidden Valley plans to launch a food security program in 2025, partnering with government agencies and NGOs to expand its efforts. While challenges remain, including difficult terrain and an aging farming population, Esther remains hopeful. "We’re planting seeds in the soil and in people’s minds. When the mine is gone, these farmers will have skills and businesses to sustain themselves."

Efforts to recover the victims of Sunday’s fatal plane crash in Sapmanga, Morobe Province, have been significantly delayed due to inclement weather and the difficult terrain. Persistent rain, heavy cloud cover, and rugged landscapes have made access to the crash site nearly impossible, stalling the retrieval of the deceased. On Christmas Day, two attempts were made to recover the bodies of the four passengers, but both were unsuccessful due to poor visibility and the remote, forested location of the wreckage. The wreckage of the B2-SAM aircraft, operated by North Coast Aviation, was found in the mountainous area near Sapmanga. The crash claimed the lives of all five individuals onboard, including pilot David Sandery, a member of the Royal Papua New Guinea Constabulary, as well as the First Secretary to the Housing Minister. Rescue teams have set up at the Sapmanga Airstrip, with coordination efforts now centralized at Nadzab and Lae’s Disaster Office. On Tuesday, authorities were able to recover Sandery's body and transport it to Lae. Operations continue, however, due to ongoing weather challenges, the retrieval of the remaining victims remains in progress. Local villagers and tactical units are being enlisted to help clear paths and improve accessibility, but the only feasible way to reach the crash site is by winch from a helicopter, with weather conditions continuing to hinder progress. Deputy Prime Minister John Rosso commented, "Recovery teams are doing everything they can, but the terrain is steep, and the area is uninhabitable—local residents don’t even venture there. The weather and clouds have added to the difficulties, but police and defense units are working tirelessly." Authorities are calling for patience as they strive to complete the mission amid these tough conditions. Disaster Director Charlie Masange is expected to give a press briefing later today to provide the latest updates on the recovery efforts.

The body of the pilot from the plane that crashed near Sapmanga in Morobe Province has been recovered and flown to Lae, Deputy Prime Minister John Rosso confirmed today. Tragically, there were no survivors among the five people aboard the aircraft. Rosso said the plane, which went missing on Sunday, was carrying four passengers and the pilot en route to Nadzab Airport when it crashed into dense jungle at an altitude of approximately 8,400 feet. He said Search efforts began immediately after the aircraft was reported missing around 10:30 AM on Sunday by initial searches conducted by Manolos Aviation Limited, were unsuccessful. However, on Monday morning, a joint operation with Manolos Aviation located the crash site during an aerial reconnaissance between 6:30 and 6:45 AM. The crash site is in a rugged and remote area, making access extremely challenging. Deputy Prime Minister Rosso confirmed that all five occupants died on impact, and the crash was followed by a fire. "The site is very difficult to access due to the dense jungle and steep terrain," Rosso said. Specialized recovery teams, including personnel from the PNG Defence Force (PNGDF), police air tactical units, and forensic experts, have been deployed to retrieve the remaining bodies. The operation has been slowed by adverse weather and the logistical difficulties of working in such a remote location. “The crash site is one of the highest points in Morobe Province, with no nearby villages or landing sites." "This has required the use of winch systems and, potentially, the clearing of a landing path,” Rosso explained. Efforts are ongoing to recover the remaining four bodies, with support from Hevilift and PNGDF helicopters. Rosso extended his condolences to the victims' families, noting the especially heartbreaking timing of the tragedy on Christmas Day. “I want to express my heartfelt condolences to the families of the pilot and passengers. I also want to thank all personnel involved in the search and recovery efforts, including Manolos Aviation, PNGDF, police, and other support teams for their dedication under challenging circumstances,” he said. Investigations into the cause of the crash are underway, but authorities are prioritizing the recovery of the victims and offering support to their families.

Efforts to assess the crash site of the North Coast Aviation (NCA) aircraft in the jungles of Morobe province resumes this morning after it was called off yesterday due to bad weather. Due to heavy cloud cover over the mountainous crash site, the team sent in to assess the crash was prevented from being winched down to the jungle floor on Monday afternoon. Manolos Aviation Chief Executive Officer (CEO) and Flight Operations Manager, Capt. Jurgen Ruh, confirmed the delay and said a Manolos Aviation nurse has undergone winch training and is ready to support the operation. Yesterday, a helicopter from Port Moresby city arrived at the Manolos Aviation heliport in Lae at 1:10 PM, carrying four officers, including a pilot and loadmaster. They were joined by NCA Operations Manager Jordan Thiele, two female medical officers, and a soldier from the Igam Engineering Battalion, ready assist. The aircraft was reported missing on Sunday, December 22nd, during a flight from Wasu Airstrip to Nadzab Airport. An emergency signal detected at 10:30 AM prompted a search operation led by the RCC (Rescue Coordination Centre) with support from Manolos Aviation, PNGDF, and other agencies. The wreckage was located early on Monday morning, but adverse weather has hindered rescue efforts.

The wreckage of North Coast Aviation’s (NCA) P2-SAM aircraft has been located, but no survivors have been seen so far. A rescue helicopter from Port Moresby landed at the Manolos Aviation heliport in Lae at around 1:10 PM today, bringing four officers, including a pilot and loadmaster. They were joined by NCA Operations Manager Jordan Thiele, two female medical staff, and a soldier from the Igam Engineering Battalion for the operation. A doctor has also been deployed to the crash site. The Rescue Coordination Centre (RCC) confirmed the aircraft, carrying five people, went missing on Sunday while flying from Wasu Airstrip to Nadzab Airport. An emergency signal was detected shortly after 10:30 AM, prompting a coordinated search involving Manolos Aviation, PNGDF, and other agencies. Efforts to reach the site continue, but no survivors have been found yet. The RCC assured the public that all resources are being used to locate and rescue anyone onboard. Further updates will follow.

PNG HAUSBUNG has confirmed that the wreckage of a North Coast Aviation (NCA) plane has been located from the air by a Manolos Aviation rescue helicopter, however, no sign of survivors has been reported yet. The aircraft, believed to have been carrying the First Assistant Secretary of the Housing Ministry and other officials, was en route from Tewai Siassi district to Lae but failed to arrive as scheduled on Saturday 21st December. Deputy Prime Minister and Lae MP John Rosso, revealed in an update that he joined the first helicopter flight from Lae at 5:30 a.m. today alongside the Manolos Aviation rescue team to inspect the crash site. Rosso noted that while the helicopter was unable to land at the site, the team successfully pinpointed the wreckage's exact grid coordinates. “At this stage, I cannot confirm the status of any survivors,” Rosso stated, explaining that a specialist team from the PNG Defence Force equipped with winching gear is being deployed to the crash site via Manolos Aviation helicopters. The North Coast Aviation aircraft was expected to arrive in Lae at 10 a.m. Saturday morning but failed to do so, following a thunderstorm on Friday night.

Lae police have launched their Christmas and New Year operations to ensure a safe festive season, Acting Lae Metropolitan Commander Chief Inspector James Luan confirmed. The operations, which include city patrols and maintaining public order, have received strong community and business support. Companies such as Trukai, SVS, and Papindo have donated food and water to assist officers during the busy period. In a show of solidarity, the Lae Peace and Order Committee, chaired by Yax Tugula, organized a community-sponsored barbecue for police personnel, a first for Lae. Luan expressed gratitude for the initiative and the backing from residents and business houses. Police remain committed to providing uninterrupted services to ensure peace and safety throughout the festive season.

Acting Assistant Police Commissioner (ACP) for Northern Command, Chris Kunyanban, has announced that police operations for the festive season will begin next week. Preparations are in full swing, with community leaders working closely with law enforcement to ensure a safe and enjoyable Christmas period. ACP Kunyanban highlighted the importance of celebrating responsibly, reminding the public to prioritize safety during festivities. "This is a time for families and friends to come together and enjoy, but we urge everyone to do so responsibly." "Celebrations like parties and sporting events are important, but they should not result in harm or disruption." He also noted that significant groundwork has already been done by police teams to ensure smooth operations. "Most of our plans will be operational next week, and we are confident that with the support of community leaders, we can ensure a peaceful and safe festive season," ACP Kunyanban added. The police are urging citizens to celebrate wisely, ensuring the joy of the holiday season is not overshadowed by negative incidents.