The abuse of alcohol continues to fuel the violence and disturbances in the communities, a pressing matter that police in Port Moresby city aims to reduce this festive season. According to the National Capital District (NCD) Metropolitan Superintendent Warrick Simatab, Port Moresby enjoyed a relatively calm Christmas period under the ‘Operation Iron Star’, but there have been several disturbing reports of alcohol related incidences that has prompted the police high command to issue further warnings to retailers and those that consumer alcohol. Met. Supt. Simatab, who released the operational update covering December 18th to December 28th, described Christmas as ‘stable’ while announcing a tougher enforcement phase heading into the New Year. According to police data, alcohol was the common factor in all recorded cases of domestic violence, unlawful assaults, public disorder and loss of life during the period. Two homicides and multiple serious assaults were directly linked to alcohol-fueled incidents, alongside hundreds of summary offences including drunk and disorderly behaviour, domestic violence, noise pollution and public brawls. Traffic enforcement also intensified, with checkpoints across the city resulting in hundreds of infringement notices and multiple arrests related to dangerous driving and alcohol impairment. Police say the figures confirm a long-standing pattern that becomes most visible during festive seasons when celebrations, alcohol abuse and public movement come together. Met. Supt. Simatab described alcohol as a ‘liquid bullet’ and announced the activation of the Hard Enforcement phase of Operation Iron Star, aimed squarely at illegal alcohol sales and public drinking. “We are now coming after the source. Illegal steam sellers, after-hours liquor outlets, tucker shops, clubs or bars breaking the law as you are providing the ammunition for violence.” The operation has been strengthened with additional personnel drawn from Police Headquarters, Mobile Squads, Dog Units, Water Police, reservists and specialist units. These teams are now leading high-visibility patrols across known hotspots. In a move aimed at reinforcing public trust, NCD Police have also begun random drug and alcohol testing of officers deployed under Operation Iron Star. “To lead the city, we must be beyond reproach and any officer found under the influence while on duty, will be removed immediately and face disciplinary action.” The operation has been supported by partnerships with city authorities, emergency services, businesses and community leaders. Police say logistical support from stakeholders such as hydration and shelter for peace posts has helped maintain round-the-clock visibility across the capital. As the city approaches New Year’s Eve, police have issued a clear warning that enforcement will tighten further. Public drinking and drink-driving will result in detention, illegal traders will face closure and prosecution, and gatherings that spill onto public roads will be dispersed. Residents are being urged to celebrate responsibly and within their homes as the year comes to a close. “We want to enter 2026 with safety and sense and the rule of law will be the only guest of honour this New Year’s Eve.” Operation Iron Star remains active across the National Capital District as police continue efforts to protect communities during one of the city’s most vulnerable periods.

While many families were preparing for the festive celebrations, National St John Ambulance (NStJA) was preparing for one of the busiest nights of the year.For Konia Kuman, this year’s Christmas Eve was especially meaningful. It was the first time he took charge as Operations Commander, leading St John Ambulance crews through the demanding festive season. Mr. Kuman, a young ambulance officer from Simbu Province, has served with National St John Ambulance for nearly four years. This festive season, he stepped into a leadership role during a period known for high emergency callouts and long hours. Speaking during the recent Christmas Eve operations, Mr. Kuman said his journey into ambulance service began with a simple desire to help others. “Growing up, I was always interested in how ambulances work and how they help people,” he said. “When I got the opportunity to join, I took it. Helping people has always been part of who I am.” He also expressed that his first days on the job confirmed that he had chosen the right path. “The first time wearing the uniform and responding to calls was a whole new experience.” “Seeing the impact, we make and the appreciation from the public gave me a real sense of purpose.” That sense of purpose has now carried him into leadership. Now as Operations Commander for the festive season, Mr. Kuman said the role comes with responsibility and pressure, but also pride. “I looked up to the leaders before me and the ones who guided and mentored me.” “I have learnt from them, and now it is my turn to lead.” In addition, with Christmas Eve through to New Year expected to bring increased emergency callouts, Mr. Kuman said teamwork remains key to managing the workload. “This job is never done alone and with that, I am grateful for my crew and their support as we stand ready to serve the community throughout this festive season.” As sirens cut through the Christmas night, Mr. Kuman stood at the centre of operations, proving that behind every emergency response is a young professional answering a calling and not just doing a job.                           

National St John Ambulance (NStJA) has increased its emergency response during the festive season to keep communities safe across Port Moresby, Central Province, Lae, and Kokopo.NStJA is working closely with the PNG Fire Service and the Royal Papua New Guinea Constabulary (RPNGC) to manage the expected rise in emergency callouts during Christmas and New Year. During Christmas, ambulance crews in Port Moresby, were stationed at Badili, Gerehu, and 9-Mile Police Stations, as well as the Waigani Fire Station, allowing for faster response times in busy areas. Police worked alongside ambulance officers to help keep crews safe while they respond to emergencies. Ambulance Operations Executive Director Mr. Terence Torea, said the festive season usually brings more emergency calls, many linked to alcohol use. “During the festive season, we often see a sharp increase in calls for help.” “Many of these incidents are related to violence and injuries caused by excessive alcohol consumption.” “To manage this, we added more ambulance crews to ensure people continue to receive urgent medical care.” Extra ambulance crews have been operating in Port Moresby since Monday, 22 December, and will continue through to Sunday, 4 January 2026. These crews are working 12-hour shifts from 11:00am to 11:30pm, on top of regular staffing. To further support operations, thirteen additional First Responders have also been added to the Port Moresby roster. Meanwhile, in Lae and Kokopo, extra ambulance crews were on duty from Christmas Eve to Boxing Day, and again on New Year’s Eve, with standby teams ready if demand increases. With these arrangements in place, a total of 14 emergency ambulance crews will continue to be on duty nationwide during peak festive periods. Crews are also supported by rapid response units, doctors, and paramedics. “Our priority is the safety of the public and our ambulance officers,” Mr Torea said. “We thank communities for their continued support and for looking out for our crews.” Furthermore, NStJA also acknowledged strong community support in Port Moresby, Lae, Kokopo, Bereina, Kwikila, and Kupiano, and thanked police and fire services for their ongoing cooperation. NStJA has also urged everyone to celebrate responsibly and help keep the festive season safe for all. In the event of an emergency, the public is advised to call 303 1000 or the toll-free number 111.

Apart from reported minor incidents, it was mostly a peaceful Christmas Eve in the city of Port Moresby as residents celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ.The National St John Ambulance in Port Moresby stated that while alcohol-fueled disputes remain a concern during the festive season, there was an overall reduction in serious violence across the city; however, the only significant incident occurred at around 4:00am this morning at East Boroko, where an elderly man, identified as Paul Raymond, and his wife were involved in a domestic dispute that resulted in head injuries.According to the neighborhood watch members at the Nusa Street in East Boroko, both parties were intoxicated at the time of the incident. Emergency responders confirmed this, stating that the couple became involved in an argument that escalated into a physical confrontation on a public road. The victim was struck on the back of his head, while his wife also sustained injuries during the altercation.Neighborhood Watch members had to intervene and prevented the situation from worsening before taking both individuals to the Boroko Police Station.National St John Ambulance Officer, Daniel Afuti, who treated the injuries at Boroko Police Station, confirmed the injuries were minor and not life-threatening.“The patient sustained a minor blunt trauma to the back of the head. He was conscious, stable, but intoxicated,” Afuti said.Basic wound care was administered, and the patient was later handed over to police for further processing.Earlier in the night, ambulance crews attended a 9:30pm callout at Talai South Side, where the area was reported to be calm, with no major incidents recorded.A 12:45am callout from Taikone Iokea Community members assisted responders, and an adult female in her late 40s received medical attention.A further call was attended at around 4:30am in the ATS area, marking another routine response during the early hours of Christmas morning.St John Ambulance officers said the majority of cases attended across the city during the night were medical-related, including seizures and other illness-based emergencies, rather than serious acts of violence.With operation “Iron Star” continuing to play a role in maintaining order during the festive period supported by police, emergency services, and neighborhood watch groups, festivity celebrations in Port Moresby city remains largely controlled and peaceful.

The town of Mendi, the provincial capital of the Southern Highlands province was on fire over the weekend when two separate fire incidents burnt and destroyed business houses and properties on Friday and then on Saturday.Residents who witnessed the incidents alleged that electrical faults were to blame, and with the intensity of the fires, the authority on ground called for emergency assistance from the Mt Hagen Fire Service to stop the damage from getting even worse. The first fire broke out around 3:00am early Friday morning on December 19th, affecting business premises in the main Mendi Town area, including Pisggah Supermarket. Resident eyewitness living nearby said the fire spread fast, catching the town off guard while most people were still asleep. The second fire struck on Saturday night on December 20th between 7:00pm and 8:00pm in the evening, destroying additional buildings in areas including Emeck Bakery and Kopiri Supermarket. Once again, the eyewitnesses alleged the fires start from electrical problems, with power connections suspected as the trigger. However, authorities have yet to officially confirm the cause. The fires caused widespread damage to local businesses already struggling through a tough year. Meanwhile, the Mt Hagen Fire Service later assisted in extinguishing the fires, helping to prevent further spread. Security personnel were also credited for stopping the flames from reaching BSP Bank, which narrowly escaped damage while chaos unfolded around it. Authorities have yet released an official damage assessment, but the incident has left several business owners counting their losses just days before Christmas. As clean-ups continue, authorities are expected to assess the damage and look at ways to prevent a repeat of such devastation in the future.

Neighborhood Watch Groups have now been successfully established across all police stations in the National Capital District as part of Operation Iron Star, with community members actively patrolling their own streets alongside police in a strengthened push to deter crime this Christmas period.The update was confirmed by NCD Metropolitan Superintendent and Operation Commander Warrick Simatab, who said the formation of neighborhood watch groups marks a key operational phase of Operation Iron Star, officially launched on December 18 as the NCD Police Festive Security Operation. Under the community deterrence strategy, Police Station Commanders and Officers-in-Charge for Community Policing worked directly with community leaders and youths to establish watch groups across all 10 NCD police stations, including Port Moresby Central, Badili, Hohola, Boroko, Waigani, Gerehu, Gordons, and the 6, 7 and 9-Mile areas. Superintendent Simatab said the approach is simple but effective to stop crime before it happens by ensuring communities and police stand together. “These groups become the eyes and ears of the police,” he said. “When criminals see communities actively working with police, they are afraid to commit crimes. This is how we keep our suburbs peaceful and our families safe during Christmas.” The neighborhood watch rollout forms part of the wider Operation Iron Star framework, which includes high-visibility policing, strict enforcement of liquor and traffic laws, hotspot patrols and zero tolerance for disorderly behavior during the festive season. Superintendent Simatab also encouraged other suburbs that have not yet formed neighborhood watch groups to contact their local Police Station Commander.“If your area does not have a Neighborhood Watch Group yet, talk to your PSC or OIC Community Policing today. We want to work with you to take back our streets.” With Operation Iron Star now fully active, police say community patrols are a clear signal that Port Moresby is reclaiming its streets together. The operation will continue till the 6th of January 2026, with police and residents jointly working to ensure a safe, calm and respectful festive season across the capital city.

CPL Group is turning the festive season into action, rolling out nationwide promotions, hospital outreach, and a blood donation drive to give back to communities across Papua New Guinea mixing Christmas cheer with real-world impact.From cash prizes to hospital wards, CPL Group’s Christmas initiatives are hitting where it matters. At the heart of it is the Joyful Giving Program, delivering gifts and essential supplies to Children’s and Maternity Wards in provincial hospitals. Customers and CPL stores contributed toys, clothing, books, bedding, and personal care items, with each store adding K1,000 towards hospital supplies. Recent visits, including Mt. Hagen General Hospital, brought relief and smiles to patients in the Pediatrics, Special Care, Maternity and Children’s Outpatient Departments. Beyond gifts, CPL also focused on saving lives. City Pharmacy Medical Laboratory and Supplies led a blood donation drive, encouraging staff to donate during the festive season which was an initiative aimed at supporting hospitals when blood demand is traditionally high. Meanwhile, shoppers nationwide are feeling the Christmas buzz through CPL’s Cash Christmas Promotion. Launched on November 3 across all 37 CPL stores, the promotion features weekly winners and a total prize pool of K300,000. So far, more than K260,000 has already been won, with one final week remaining before the promotion closes on December 29th. CPL Group CEO Kee Lim said the initiatives reflect the company’s values beyond retail. “Christmas is about sharing joy and hope,” Lim said. “Through these initiatives, we aim to give back to our customers and communities in ways that truly matter.” Whether through cash rewards, hospital outreach, or life-saving blood donations, CPL Group’s festive season message is clear: Christmas isn’t just something to celebrate, it’s something to act on.  

The basketball did more than bounce last weekend in Aiyura in the Eastern Highlands province, it built bridges. The Aiyura Basketball Association (ABA) successfully hosted a three-day Friendship Basketball Tournament, uniting teams from the Momase and Highlands regions in a celebration of sport, skill and shared community.Held from Friday, December 5 to Sunday, December 7 at Aiyura Green Valley, the tournament brought together junior and senior teams in Under-17 and Open divisions, with both male and female players taking part. Teams travelled from across Madang, Lae, Wau, Jiwaka, Goroka, Kainantu, Yonki and Aiyura, turning the valley into a regional hoop hub. Despite persistent rain preventing the completion of all finals, the atmosphere remained positive and competitive. ABA President Kevin Wal said the tournament was never about trophies alone. “This tournament is more than basketball,” he said. “It’s about strengthening connections between communities, giving young players exposure, and nurturing their passion for the game. Friendship and unity were the real winners.” Teams were accommodated at SIL PNG housing, which provided secure and comfortable lodging throughout the event. Visiting teams and officials praised the warm hospitality shown by the host association, reinforcing the tournament’s theme of connection beyond the court. In the Under-17 division, Eastern Pride Basketball Club (Goroka) claimed first place in the boys’ category, while ABA Girls topped the junior female division. In the Open Men’s division, Jiwaka led Pool A, followed by Walium and Lae City, while SIL Crusaders claimed first place in Pool B ahead of ABA Men and Yonki Men. In the Open Senior Women’s division, ABA finished first, followed by Wau Women and Jiwaka Women. All teams received certificates of participation, with cash envelopes distributed, SIL gift packs provided to players and officials, and Basketball for Good and ABA/FCA T-shirts handed out as part of the recognition program. ABA acknowledged the strong backing of K92 Mining as major sponsor, SIL PNG for venue and accommodation support, and the ABA management team for their commitment behind the scenes. President Wal said the tournament reflected the true spirit of basketball in Papua New Guinea—unity, resilience and shared purpose. As Momase and Highlands teams returned home, they carried more than results: they carried new friendships, renewed motivation and proof that sport still speaks the loudest when communities listen together.

The NGI Regional Basketball Championships are underway in Kokopo District after rain delays, with teams from East New Britain and New Ireland competing under the hosting of the Kokopo City Basketball Association, celebrating unity, resilience and the revival of structured basketball pathways in Papua New Guinea.The championships are hosted by the Kokopo City Basketball Association under the East New Britain Basketball Association, bringing together teams from New Ireland Provincial Sports and East New Britain. Despite heavy rainfall forcing a one-day delay, games officially tipped off on Wednesday, December 10, with organizers providing regular updates as fixtures progress. Persistent rain has continued to challenge scheduling, however organizers say arrangements are being made to ensure all games are completed on time. Special consideration is also being given to the Kavieng Basketball family to allow safe travel home ahead of the Christmas season, reflecting the cooperative spirit of the tournament. Interim President of ENBBA, Ms. Loa Oala, said the championships represent more than just competition. “We stand united to revive basketball and build unity through this sport,” she said. “With the resilience of our players, the commitment of our organizers, and the support of our communities, we are confident this championship will conclude successfully and leave a lasting impact.” Her comments highlight the broader goal of rebuilding basketball at the grassroots and regional levels. Basketball Federation of PNG President David Peter praised ENBBA’s leadership and outlined a renewed national vision for the sport. “Our strategic approach going forward will be provincial and regional competitions leading into national championships,” he said, explaining that future international selections will follow a provincial to national pathway. He noted that this structure had been dormant for nearly two decades and is now being restored through strong association leadership and passion for the game. Organizers say the NGI Regional Basketball Championships mark a turning point for the sport in the region, showcasing unity, perseverance and renewed direction. As games continue in Kokopo, basketball leaders hope the momentum will carry forward into stronger provincial, regional and national competitions in the seasons ahead.                           

Youths With A Mission (YWAM) reached ATS 694 Block in Port Moresby Northeast yesterday 16th December after an invitation from the ATS Youths For Change Movement, engaging young people in a settlement community where crime often feels like the easiest exit and purpose the hardest road.The outreach focused on youths growing up in environments where opportunity is limited and negative influence is constant. Instead of lectures, YWAM brought real-life stories, practical engagement and a grounded message that change is not abstract it is possible and within reach. Community women’s elder and leading voice of ATS Youths For Change, Damaris Bonga, said the visit strengthened ongoing efforts to steer youths away from crime. “YWAM’s programs and real-life testimonies show our youths that transformation, self-development and opportunity are possible,” she said. “This outreach reminded them that crime is not the only option.” Her remarks highlight how exposure to lived experiences can shift mindsets in communities where choices are often shaped by survival. More than 50 young people from broken homes, single-parent families and street backgrounds took part. Many with desire to stay away from criminal activities, negative peer pressure and excessive device use, choosing instead discipline, character growth and purpose-driven living. YWAM participant Dephney Valor Pukienei explained that the organization’s approach goes beyond inspiration to long-term action. “We don’t just talk about faith,” she said. “We believe in reaching people emotionally, mentally and practically. After someone finds hope, the next question is what comes next and that’s where training, service and real-life skills matter.” She said YWAM programs cover discipleship, leadership training, health, education, media, sports and community service to restore lives holistically. The outreach aligns with the goal of ATS Youths For Change to support youths, especially boys who fall out of the education system and are vulnerable to crime. YWAM Facilitators includes Joyce Namile Maiyene, Monica Anis, Hezron Ginmini, and Cheeryl Lyna Sil Gala shared testimonies and encouraged participants to join ongoing church and community programs. Dephney said the outreach is part of a shared vision to raise future leaders who will not only overcome hardship but return to uplift their families and settlements. With YWAM and ATS Youths For Change working together, more youths are being shown that purpose can outshout pressure and outlast shortcuts.    

Stop and Shop has launched Pacifika Smokehaus, its new mid-range meat brand, at Stop and Shop Central Waigani on Monday 15th December 2025 marking the first major in-store brand launch since the supermarket was acquired by Taylor Pacific from CPL.The launch signaled a new chapter for Stop and Shop under Taylor Pacific management, with Pacifika Smokehaus introduced as a fresh in-house brand aimed at balancing affordability with quality. Stop & Shop Marketing Manager Marjorie Singu said the brand was designed to make value easy to recognize while expanding customer choice in the fresh meat section. “Pacifika Smokehaus is a brand introduced under Stop and Shop to show our customers that, in addition to our existing chicken and lamb, we now offer quality beef from Ramu, marinated chicken cuts, and gourmet sausages,” Ms. Singu said. She explained that the range focuses on well-prepared meats at accessible prices, without compromising on standards. “Customers can find affordable meat, but also quality cuts they won’t easily find elsewhere at the same price point,” she added. Pacifika Smokehaus features beef sourced from Ramu, marinated chicken, lamb, and gourmet sausages, all positioned as convenient, ready-to-cook options for households. The Waigani Central outlet is the first store to showcase the brand within the PNG products section. Ms. Singu confirmed the brand will be rolled out across other Stop and Shop outlets nationwide as part of the company’s broader strategy under its new ownership. “Pacifika Smokehaus is a brand customer who will see across all Stop and Shop stores moving forward. This is just the beginning.” With the launch of Pacifika Smokehaus, Stop and Shop has set the tone for its next phase under Taylor Pacific, signaling more in-store innovation and expanded fresh food offerings as the brand is introduced nationwide.

The Pacific International Hospital (PIH) in Port Moresby city held its annual Christmas celebration yesterday, Saturday 13th December at Vision City Dynasty Restaurant, honoring staff and dignitaries while reflecting on the year’s achievements, reaffirming organizational values, and spotlighting resilience, community service and the hospital’s role as a leading healthcare provider in Papua New Guinea (PNG).The event opened with PIH leaders welcoming staff and guests to a festive programmed focused on togetherness, gratitude and recognition of collective effort. Reminding attendees that the Christmas season is not just about celebration, but also about community spirit and generosity, values integral to the hospital’s mission of compassionate healthcare. PIH’s Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Colonel Sandeep Shaligram reflected on the dedication of the hospital’s workforce, noting how staff have excelled amid uncertainty and operational challenges throughout the year. He highlighted the hospital’s culture of perseverance, reminding everyone that the strength of the institution lies in its people rather than its infrastructure. Long service, hard work and commitment to quality care were acknowledged as foundational to PIH’s success.Mr. Sandeep Shaligram also addressed criticism faced by the hospital, framing it as a sign of growth and resilience rather than a deterrent. Using the metaphor of an eagle soaring above detractors, he encouraged staff to focus on delivering high standards of care, asserting that PIH continues to offer quality services at competitive costs compared with other private healthcare providers in PNG.He said the hospital's growth in a growing private health care sector, underscores PIH’s role in expanding access to advanced medical services and championing innovation, even amid systemic challenges.The celebration reaffirmed PIH’s commitment to excellence in healthcare and community impact. As the hospital looks ahead, Mr. Sandeep Shaligram emphasized continual growth, quality improvement, and the shared goal of expanding healthcare access across the country with all grounded in the unity and dedication showcased at the Christmas gathering.