Law enforcement in Madang has been strengthened with the addition of nine newly trained probationary constables. The fresh recruits were officially welcomed this week by Madang Provincial Police Commander, Superintendent Robert Baim, who highlighted the importance of the new officers in tackling crime and maintaining order. “They arrive at a crucial time. Their contribution will enhance policing and help us better respond to community needs,” Baim said. He acknowledged the ongoing efforts of Police Commissioner David Manning and the Royal Papua New Guinea Constabulary (RPNGC) leadership in addressing police staff shortages across the country. The new constables will be stationed at various locations around Madang, working alongside existing units to support daily police duties and community engagement. Baim said their deployment is part of wider efforts to increase police presence and improve safety across the province.

One man is dead following a car accident outside Madang, with police suspecting alcohol may have played a role. The fatal crash has sparked fresh warnings for motorists to be cautious as election-related travel, picks- up. The accident occurred just after midday on Wednesday, June 12, near Alemo Junction on the Bruce Jeff Cott Highway, around 21 kilometres from Madang. The vehicle, a brown Toyota Landcruiser from Madang Office Suppliers, was returning from Walium with four people on board when it ran off the road. Police say the driver tried to overtake another vehicle but lost control while merging back, causing the vehicle to plunge into a drain. A male passenger, identified as 40-year-old Lepai Pauli of Kupalis village in Enga Province, reportedly jumped from the moving car and died instantly. His body was taken to Madang Provincial Hospital. The others were unharmed. Empty beer cans found at the scene suggested that the crash was alcohol related. Acting Provincial Police Commander Robert Baim said the incident highlights the danger of drinking and driving, especially during busy election movements. "Please prioritize safety. Don’t drive under the influence or overload vehicles," he urged. An investigation into the crash is ongoing.

A partnership between churches, communities and government in Morobe’s Markham District is bringing hope to rural education — and Waritzian Primary School is leading the charge. The school, located near Wateraise Junction, is being groomed to become the district’s first junior high school under Papua New Guinea’s evolving 1-6-6 education model. Markham MP Koni Iguan said the change is part of a long-term strategy to expand access to quality education. “We are not just building a school. We are building a quality school, with shared values and strong support,” he said. The Markham District is working with seven church groups in a joint effort to implement the new system, with a goal of having at least one high school in every Local Level Government (LLG). Waritzian Primary School, founded by Lutheran missionaries in the 1950s, has a long legacy of preparing young people for service — and now it is being called to rise to a new level. Head Teacher, Luther Bura said despite its legacy, the school faces real challenges. “Government subsidies are not enough to keep us running properly,” he said. Shortages in learning materials and overcrowded classes have prompted the school to propose a four-in-one classroom project, funded by the Markham District Development Authority. “The project may cost more than what the DDA can afford,” Bura admitted, “but we are hopeful.” Bura also called on the community to unite. “We must support long-term goals. This school belongs to everyone.” MP Iguan urged locals to avoid conflict with school leadership. “When we give support, we expect the school to be well managed,” he warned, emphasizing accountability. Waritzian hopes to be assessed for junior high status in 2026 or 2027, setting an example for other rural schools in the district. “We are aiming to lead by example,” Bura said. “Let us all play our part.”

Kennedy Erinuka is the only health worker serving remote communities on the border of Markham and Yus in Morobe Province. Since 2011, Kennedy has treated hundreds from a small aid post he built himself in Kikiapa Village. He serves people who walk for hours—some a whole day—for basic medical help. He left the Lutheran Health Services in 2013 to work under public health. His aid post has no electricity, no staff, and limited supplies, yet he treats children, assists in births using a phone light, gives out medicine, and runs vaccine programs. When outbreaks occur, Kennedy hikes to remote villages with medicine and stays for days to help. But drug shortages are constant. “The supply I get each month is not enough,” he said. “I’ve raised the issue, but nothing changes.” Vaccination rates are low, and many children remain at risk. In 2018, Kennedy helped save a mother’s life by arranging a medevac through the Markham MP. He works alone with no ambulance, no backup, and no support from the Yus Local Level Government (LLG). Despite this, he continues. “I promised to serve my people,” he says. “Maybe one day, the right people will help.” Kennedy hopes to upgrade his aid post to a proper Community Health Post with basic supplies, lighting, and a team. Until then, he remains the only health worker for miles—keeping his doors open, day and night.

Four (4) students from Naweab Lutheran Secondary School in Morobe province are expected to be formally charged following a break-in at the girls’ dormitory last week, police say. The Provincial Police Commander (PPC) Superintendent Jacob Singura said eight (8 people, including outsiders, entered the dormitory’s common area during night study hours. The group reportedly stole mobile phones that the female students had left charging. “There were about eight of them. Four students have been apprehended and will be processed today,” Supt Singura confirmed. The remaining suspects are still being tracked as police continue patrols and investigations at the school.

Students at Ragiampun SDA Primary School in Morobe’s Markham District have turned classroom lessons into real-life solutions by building a small market to support their families and community. Led by assistant teacher Mr. Jacob Sani, the Grade 7 class took on the project as part of their “Making a Living” subject under Basic Technology. They learned practical skills like measuring, planning, and basic construction—working as a team to bring the idea to life. “For years, mothers sold food on the ground without proper hygiene,” Mr. Sani said. “We wanted to change that.” With support from the school, students helped design and build a mini market on campus. It now provides a clean, safe space for parents—especially mothers—to sell fruits, vegetables, and snacks. Many students rely on the market for lunch, as the nearest one is far from school. Now, fresh food is available on-site, saving time and keeping kids fed during classes. Since February, the school has collected small fees from sellers to help maintain the market and install sinks, taps, and lunch huts. Local produce like bananas, cocoa, peanuts, sugarcane, watermelon, and cucumbers are now available. “The kids are not only eating better but also learning about budgeting, planning, and teamwork,” Mr. Sani said. “It’s helping teachers too—now we can get fresh food without leaving school.” The income from the market helps fund school improvements and fundraising activities. The school hopes the market will continue to support students and the wider village. This project shows how hands-on learning builds real-world skills while strengthening the community.

A group of armed men attacked Nawaeb Lutheran Secondary School on Thursday night. They entered the female dormitory and held the students at gunpoint. A Grade 10 student said the girls had just finished their exam and were inside the dormitory. She said the men stole their phones and started beating them with sticks and knives. The attackers locked the dormitory doors, and the girls screamed for help after after which male students and staff responded and chased the men away. Eight injured female students were taken to Angau Hospital and a male student was also hurt while trying to help. Dr. Kipas Binga from the Morobe Provincial Health Authority said one girl had wounds to her back and shoulder. Another had a cut to her ear. Others had injuries to their arms and legs. One girl had a skull fracture but is now stable and waiting for surgery. Nawaeb MP Theo Pelgen condemned the attack and said those responsible will be punished. Morobe Police Commander Jacob Singura said the incident happened between 7pm and 8pm. Police are investigating and trying to identify the suspects. Singura called on communities to respect schools and students. He said such attacks are not acceptable. Two police vehicles visited the school on Friday to collect statements. This is the first time such an incident has happened at the school.

Raikos Secondary School in Rai Coast District of Madang province is facing growing pressure as more students enroll each year. Deputy Principal for Administration, Bangan Siwo, says the school has more than 1,000 students from Grade 9 to Grade 12 this year. But there are only 30 teachers — three short of the number needed. This means one teacher is looking after around 56 students. Subjects like IT, Visual Arts, Performing Arts, and Music are not taught. Mr. Siwo says this is because the school does not have the right classrooms or facilities. He said the general classrooms are enough, thanks to former Rai Coast MP, the late James Gau. But the dormitories are old and need fixing. So do the toilets and the school mess. The mess needs an extension and basic items like tables. There’s no hall for gatherings and no special buildings for arts or music. Mr. Siwo said desks and chairs are always in short supply due to rising enrollment. However, there are enough learning materials. Teachers use books, internet, and the Standard-Based Curriculum to prepare lessons. The school runs on a 95 KVA diesel generator. But it's now struggling to meet the school's growing power needs. Water comes from a mountain spring and is stored in tanks. This system was built with help from the European Union in the late 1990s. Most students are boarders and live in school dormitories. Only a few live close enough to walk to school. Transport remains a big challenge. The school depends on outboard motors to bring in food, fuel, and school supplies. It costs about K120 to bring in a 20kg bag of rice. Mr. Siwo said the school is generally safe. There is no fence, but there are casual security guards. He also thanked the local community for helping to keep the school safe and clean. Bad weather, especially rough seas during heavy rain, can stop supplies from arriving on time. Mr. Siwo said most students know why they are in school and are focused on learning. But some lose focus. The school enforces strict rules and works closely with parents to deal with discipline. There are no new support programs. The last big help came from the late James Gau under a Public Private Partnership program. That support built two 4-in-1 dormitories and classrooms. The nearby Ramu Nickel Mine has not provided much support. It only donated a tractor more than 10 years ago, which no longer works, and two rusty containers. Mr. Siwo is calling on district and provincial leaders to visit the school. He says urgent needs include staff housing, a computer lab, a proper hall, new dormitories, and a school vehicle to replace the broken-down truck. Despite all the challenges, Mr. Siwo says Raikos Secondary is lucky to have some of the best infrastructure in the province. This includes a science lab and a Wi-Fi system, both funded by the National Department of Education. He wants the school to be upgraded to a School of Excellence. He believes this change will attract more government attention and funding. “This change in status will open the eyes of the authorities and speed up development,” Mr. Siwo said.

The official search for a missing boat off the coast of Madang has been called off after 72 hours, according to the PNG Marine Rescue Coordination Centre (PNGMRCC). Captain Tony Dibul, Madang Rapid Response Network Coordinator, confirmed that the formal operation ended after the standard three-day period. However, local families are still searching with their own resources. “We’re doing everything we can to help organize fuel to support their local effort,” Dibul said. He added that notices have been issued for coastal communities and vessels at sea to remain alert for any signs. Meanwhile, John Newton Ariku, founder of the Madang Rapid Response Network (MRRN), has publicly challenged the government and private companies to support the Madang Water Police. “Our officers are patrolling vast waters using small dinghies meant for fishing,” Ariku said. “This is unacceptable. We need proper boats for rescue and patrol work.” He called on the Madang Provincial Government, district leaders, national MPs, major companies, and donor partners to urgently step in to help. “This is not just about safety, it’s about leadership,” Ariku said.

The struggling Madang Provincial Hospital has received new medical equipment and essential supplies to improve patient care thanks to the kind generosity of business houses. The first being the BSP Financial Group Limited (BSP) where the bank's Madang Branch Manager, Mary Koi presented the equipment during a small ceremony. The items included a brand-new ECG machine, an electric suction machine, and an electric hospital bed. The medical equipment is estimated to cost K50,000. Acting CEO of the Madang Provincial Health Authority (PHA), Dr Sammy Thomas, accepted the donation on behalf of the hospital. The donation was specifically made for the medical ward. Doctors and nurses in the ward had been using old ECG and suction machines. The new ECG machine will help diagnose cardiovascular diseases. The electric suction machine will help remove mucus from patients' lungs to improve breathing. The hospital's Executive Manager, the BSP Regional Manager, the Manager for Nursing Services, and the medical ward team attended the event. Brian Bell Group was the other business house that also donated essential hygiene and electrical supplies. Madang Branch Manager Newman Tom handed over the items to Acting Executive Manager of the Hospital, Mr. Johnmark Jeremiah. The donation included infection control chemicals, hand sanitizers, toilet tissues, hand towels, fluorescent light bulbs, starters, light frames, and floodlights. Ela Enterprise was another one that provided a quote for the maintenance of the patient ablution block for Wards 1 and 2. The quote has been submitted to Madang Open MP Brian Kramer. The hospital is now waiting for his response.

A human rights lawyer has vowed to fight for justice after a mother and her young daughter were allegedly assaulted and unlawfully detained by employees of a foreign-owned retail business in Madang over a disputed bag of rice. Laken Lepatu Aigilo, the lawyer representing the victims, confirmed that six individuals—including three Chinese nationals and three employees —have been criminally charged with Serious Assault and Unlawful Deprivation of Liberty. The accused made their first appearance at the Madang Committal Court on Monday, with police confirming that investigations have been completed. “This was a case of gross injustice,” Aigilo said. “The mother and daughter did not steal anything. They had a valid receipt for a 5kg bag of rice, but were still accused, assaulted, and unlawfully locked up. The evidence is clear—from medical reports to video footage.” Aigilo said that if convicted, the accused could each face up to six years in prison. While police are pursuing the criminal case, Aigilo is preparing to file a human rights suit in the Waigani National Court on behalf of the victims. The case will be brought against the six individuals and their employers—Yaho Investment Ltd. “Our Constitution protects all citizens from inhuman and degrading treatment. What happened to this mother and child was not only unlawful—it was unconstitutional,” said Aigilo. The human rights application will rely on several provisions of the Constitution, including: Section 42 – Protection from unlawful deprivation of liberty Section 41 – Protection from harsh, oppressive, or unwarranted acts Section 36 – Protection from inhuman treatment According to Aigilo, the Human Rights Track in the National Court allows individuals to enforce these rights directly, and he is confident the civil case will result in a significant compensation order. “Based on precedent, we expect compensation to exceed K100,000. The companies involved must be held accountable through the principle of vicarious liability—when employees act unlawfully in the course of their duties, the employer is liable.” The lawyer also confirmed that his firm has formally taken on the case and is providing both legal and financial support to the victims. The young girl is now in a safe house, and K1,000 has been given to the mother to assist with basic needs while the legal process unfolds. “We are committed to pursuing this case professionally and without fear,” said Aigilo. "Our goal is not just justice for our clients, but a legal precedent that sends a clear message—violations of human rights will not go unpunished.” He further called on the court to impose strict bail conditions on the accused to prevent interference with state witnesses and said he trusts the police will ensure the victims’ ongoing safety. “This is a test of our justice system’s integrity,” Aigilo added. "Let us not forget: the rule of law protects the weak from the powerful. And in this case, the law will speak.”

A remote primary school in Morobe Province is facing closure after its only reliable transport route — the Imane Airstrip — was shut down due to safety concerns. According to Head Teacher Mrs. Nosalyn Yalambing Agula of Imane Primary School, SIL Aviation has suspended its flights after pilots flagged serious safety risks. The airstrip lacks enough cone markers needed for safe landings, leaving the community stranded. “SIL says we need 18 cone markers, but we only have three. Without those, pilots can’t land safely. This means no more flights, and no more supplies,” Mrs. Agula explained. For years, Imane Primary has depended on air transport for school materials, food, and medical items. The process is expensive — trucks must be hired to move supplies to Ayura in the Eastern Highlands, followed by a K5,900 charter flight to Imane. Now, that lifeline has been cut. “Our school receives only basic materials from the Supply Office. We have to buy everything else — markers, pens, pencils — with help from students’ contributions,” she said. The school recently reached Level 6 status and has 10 approved teaching positions, eight of which are currently filled. Despite limited funding through the Tuition Fee Free (TFF) program, Mrs. Agula oversaw the construction of four staff houses, which were set to be officially opened on July 4, with the Deputy Prime Minister expected to attend. But with the airstrip out of use, the event may be cancelled — and the school could soon shut down due to lack of supplies. Communication is another major barrier. Imane has no mobile network coverage. The school uses radio messages relayed through CRMF in Goroka to communicate with airlines and other support services. During the rainy season, even radio signals become unreliable. “The only way in, now is a two-day walk-through mountains and rivers. It’s not safe, and it’s not realistic for carrying school materials,” Mrs. Agula said. The head teacher has made repeated appeals to authorities for help but says she has not received any clear direction. She is now calling on government departments, especially in Works and Education, to urgently restore air access to the school. “Right now, I’m the only government worker they see out there. The community depends on me. I’m doing everything I can, but I can’t do this alone,” she said. The people of Imane are pleading for national attention to ensure their children’s education does not come to a standstill.