Police units deployed at the Santos National Football Stadium in Boroko responded immediately on the afternoon of Sunday, 30th August 2026, to an outbreak of spectator violence and rugby hooliganism during a high-stakes match.

While supporting stadium security personnel in managing fast-moving crowds, officers intervened to halt an ongoing assault on an opposing supporter.

Order was restored swiftly as officers isolated the disturbance and apprehended a primary suspect on-site.

Following the incident, police formally charged 30-year-old Delbert Paul, from Muntma village in the Mul-Baiyer District of Western Highlands Province, in connection with the unlawful assault of a Rabaul Gurias supporter, subsequently refusing him bail.

NCD Police investigations remain active as officers review video footage and gather witness reports to identify and arrest all other individuals involved in the violent outburst.

NCD Metropolitan Superintendent Warrick Simatab strongly condemned the harassment of opposing fans and spectator violence in public sporting venues, emphasizing that lawlessness under the guise of sports fandom will not be tolerated.

He warned that rival fans targeting opposing supporters threatens public safety, ruins the spirit of national sport, jeopardizes local competitions, and severely damages the country’s international image.

He added that wearing team colors or holding a match ticket grants no immunity from criminal prosecution, cautioning that anyone engaging in violence at a sporting venue will be arrested and processed through the court system.

With Papua New Guinea preparing to celebrate its 51st Independence Anniversary in just 15 days, as well as hosting the PNG Games in November, participating in the Rugby World Cup, and promoting the PNG 2028 NRL bid, the Metropolitan Command is urging all residents and sports enthusiasts in the capital to reflect on their conduct.

Authorities are calling on the public to practice responsibility, enjoy the spirit of competition, and respect opposing supporters as law-abiding citizens.

The command stressed the importance of demonstrating civic pride and unity during national celebrations to ensure public arenas remain safe for families and international visitors alike.