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Helen-Jennifer BUBUWAU
WOMEN AND GIRLS’ SAFETY IS EVERYONE’S BUSINESS | MET SUPT SIMATAB
National Capital District Metropolitan Superintendent Warrick Simatab emphasized the alarming cases of woman and girls being victims of sexual assault in different parts of the National Capital District (NCD).
Met Supt. Simatab emphasized the concern, addressing the crimes as serious and the Police command’s strong steps to stop these cases.
Women and girls living in the city have been victims of violence of all aspects recently according to police reports.
“We are increasing patrols in high-risk areas like bus stops, markets, schools, and settlements.”
“No woman or girl should feel unsafe walking in the streets, going to school, to work, or even in her own home. Women are our mothers, sisters, daughters, and wives we must protect them,” Simatab said.
Met Supt Simoitab stressed that Family and Sexual Violence Units (FSVU) are ready to help victims and respond fast to reports. He said they are working with community leaders and youth groups to raise awareness and support women’s safety.
“If you are a victim or witness, please report. Your report can help stop further attacks. What we ask from the public is to Respect women and girls at all times. Look out for each other especially women travelling alone,” said Met Supt. Simitab.
Met Supt. Simatab says speak up and report any abuse or suspicious behaviour to the police.
And to the parents, they must teach their sons to respect women and treat everyone with dignity.
Meanwhile, his message to offenders is, “If they abuse or harm women, police will come for them. They will be arrested and dealt with by law.
“There is no place in our city for people who hurt women and children.”
“We want to build a city where our women can walk freely without fear.”
“Let’s work together to make our homes, our streets, and our communities safe for all women and girls.”
Published on June 6, 2025
NCD METSUPT SIMATAB TO CRACK DOWN ON CITY TRAFFIC OFFENDERS
The new National Capital District (NCD) Metropolitan Superintendent Warrick Simatab urged the public to follow simple phases to eliminate the concerning issue of congested roads, due to the high number defective and unroadworthy vehicles.
On behalf of the NCD Metropolitan Police Command, Met Supt. Simatab emphasised this concern on Tuesday 03rd June 2025, cautioning all private and business vehicle owners, including Taxi and PMV operators about the growing danger and disorder on the city roads.
Met Supt. Simatab stressed the ignorance of many people of basic road safety rules and must stop, as it encourages crowded streets and freeways due too many faulty vehicles causing traffic jams and putting lives at risk.
“We are giving this public notice to allow all drivers and vehicle owners to fix your vehicles or remove them from the road before the police take action.”
“The following are the Phases that we will follow:”
Phase One:
Awareness and Warning (Tuesday 03rd 2025.) to all vehicle owners of all commercial trades.
All vehicle owners are advised to check their cars, PMVs, and taxis for any fault that violated traffic rules (defective, no brakes, no lights, no registration, or not roadworthy) and take it off the road immediately.
This is your chance to fix it before police enforcement begins.
Phase Two:
Arrest and Penalties (Starting Soon)
Every police officer in NCD — from the Metropolitan Superintendent down to the last Constable — has been instructed to make 5 arrests every month starting with traffic offences.
According to the new Road Traffic Act, the bail for each traffic offence is K500.
Meanwhile, he said if an offender is caught and charged with 10 traffic violations, the bail will be K5,000.
Furthermore, he added that police are not here to talk anymore but act.
He said this is the final warning and there will be no excuses once caught breaking the law, you will face the consequences.
“To every driver, respect the road. Respect other people’s lives. Drive responsibly.”
“Let’s work together to make our roads safer, cleaner, and less congested for everyone — especially our school children, working mothers, and elderly citizens.”
Published on June 5, 2025
HOHOLA ATTEMPTED MURDER SUSPECT ARRESTED IN JIWAKA| PPC ASI
Jiwaka Police arrested a wanted suspect from Hela Province for attempted murder at Hohola (Hox) 4 in Port Moresby.
Jiwaka Provincial Police Commander (PPC), acting Superintendent, Laimo Asi confirmed the suspects capture on Monday 26th May 2025, and his detention in Jiwaka police cell.
According to PPC Asi, the suspect had used a sharp machete or Bush Knife as the weapon to chop-off his wife’s right leg at Hox-4 and has been on the run for eight months.
PPC Asi emphasized that the suspect would appear in Jiwaka court following formal charges before his case is transferred to Port Moresby upon arrangement.
Meanwhile, the timely acknowledgement of the wanted notice on the 26th of May 2025, to Jiwaka Police Station led to the suspects arrest following his escape to the Highlands Region.
The arrest demonstrated swift and efficient communication from the Boroko Criminal Investigation Division in Port Moresby.
PPC Asi said the Banz police upon confirming the suspect’s location, they traced him down the same day and apprehended him at around 3.00pm.
He is now in police custody.
PPC Asi commended his police officers for the job well done in apprehending the suspect.
Published on June 2, 2025
MONO MUTRUS BOWS OUT; ACCEPTS DEFEAT IN SEMIS
Mono Murtus Brothers Coach Mr. Tony Kili has embraced an 8-10 defeat in the KCK Rigo Rice Cup Semifinals against the SS Dolphins, stating that the team will be back for third-place curtain raiser in the KCK Rigo Rice Cup Grand final.
Coach Kili had stated this in an interview with PNG HAUSBUNG in his home community in Hohola, Port Moresby city.
Despite failing in their objective to compete in the KCKRRC Grand Final, Mutrus Brothers now stand by for the K40, 000 third prize money.
With hardship faced by Mutrus Brother on the field, Coach Kili acknowledge and commended his side for demonstrating good sportsmanship against opponents, the SS Dolphins.
He humbly spoke on the logic of winning and losing in all games especially in Rugby League.
“There will always be one winner and one loser, we accept the defeat and look to the third prize.”
“Our team was ready for the win but fell short and SS Dolphins took advantage of our mistakes and won.”
Meanwhile, he emphasized that errors have been identified and commended the SS Dolphins for putting up a tough match against his team and hopes nothing but the best of luck for them.
“Good Luck to SS Dolphins in the coming Grand Final.”
Furthermore, he emphasized deep interest to enter the second KCK Rigo Rice Cup Season next year, with the goal to take the Grand Final Prize.
Published on June 2, 2025
RAIDERS TOPPLE ROOSTERS 26 -24
The Raiders looked to have produced a long-range effort to close out the half, however hooker Owen Pattie was in front of the kicker when the play began all the way back on halfway.
The penalty handed the Roosters one set of six to extend their lead and they capitalised when James Tedesco scored on the stroke of half-time.
The try ensured the hosts entered the breakup by eight despite Canberra's dominance throughout the opening 40.
The Raiders have held on to secure their fifth come-from-behind victory over the season and climb to second on the ladder.
The Roosters threw plenty at their opponents in the final set of the match, but a Victor Radley ultimately brought an end to their comeback hopes.
The hosts led 18-8 after 53 minutes however Ricky Stuart's men then lifted their game to another level and promptly ran in three tries in 15 minutes to run over the top of their opponents.
Ethan Sanders was impressive in his first NRL match for the Raiders and his performance shows the future is bright when Jamal Fogarty departs at the end of the season. Roosters 24 - Raiders 26.
Source: NRL.com
Published on June 2, 2025
LAE SNAX TIGERS EDGEOUT KROTON HELA WIGMEN FOR 24-18 VICTORY
The Lae Snax Tigers held their focus to secure a hard-fought 24-18 win over the Kroton Hela Wigmen today Saturday 31st May 2025, in Round 8 of the Digicel ExxonMobil Cup 2025.
The Snax Tigers demonstrated their swift retaliation with resilient defence and attack against the Wigmen at the National Football Stadium in Port Moresby, leaving no room for error in critical periods.
In a tightly contested encounter, both teams went try-for-try in the opening half.
The Wigmen struck first through Siki Konden and Woodie Kawage, while the Tigers responded with tries from Bobby Joel and Carlos Lung.
Despite two tries from both teams, only one conversion was successful for each, with the scores leveled at 10-10 heading into the second half.
The Tigers seized the momentum early in the second half, with Lung adding his second try before Graham Rex powered over to stretch their lead.
Mark Alunga’s accurate conversions, along with a late penalty goal, kept the Tigers just ahead despite Wigmen’s continued pressure.
Mesno Laki’s try and a penalty from Lote Kuman brought the Wigmen within striking distance, but the Tigers’ defence held strong in the final minutes.
With four tries and a composed finish under pressure, Lae Snax Tigers walked away with a narrow yet vital victory, 24-18.
The win reinforces their status as a strong contender in the 2025 campaign, while the Wigmen are left to regroup after a brave but failed effort.
Meanwhile, the Tigers now celebrate, and prepare for their next match against the Gulf Isou here at NFS on Saturday 7th June 2025.
Published on May 31, 2025
WAGHI TUMBE OUTCLASS CENTRAL DABARIS IN COMMANDING 30-10 VICTORY
The Asila Waghi Tumbe delivered a dominant performance in Round 8 of the Digicel ExxonMobil Cup 2025 today at the Santos National Football Stadium.
Despite trailing 6-10 in the first half, Waghi Tumbe effortlessly overpowering the Gas Resource Central Dabaris 30-10 in the second half.
After a promising start by the Dabaris, who crossed the try line twice by Cyril Seiba and Peter Bongro with two tries and only one successful Conversion, the Waghi Tumbe responded with intensity and precision with a first-half breakthrough by a well-finished try from Ishmael Waine, setting the tone for the Tumbe’s comeback.
The second half was a showcase of Waghi Tumbe’s disciplined attack and defensive strategy.
Jonah Moti pierced through the Dabaris defence adding in their favor with a 2-points lead from a successful Conversion 12-10.
[caption id="attachment_66272" align="aligncenter" width="672"] The Asila Waghi Tumbe players taking field position in today's clash against the Central Dabaris.[/caption]
Meanwhile, Tumbe’s Junior James added further pressure, and a strong momentum continued to swing in Tumbe's favour as Cedrick Kuli and Salika Matthew crossed the line in quick succession, sealing the win.
Despite one failed conversion attempt by Tumbe’s Scott Francis, he was flawless with the boot, converting all four of Tumbe’s successful conversion attempts further stretching their lead and leaving the Dabaris unable to recover.
The Waghi Tumbe left full time with five tries and four out of 5 conversions successful, while the Dabaris remain idle with two tries and on conversion, 30-10.
With this impressive away win, Wahgi Tumbe not only cemented their attacking reputation but also sent a clear message to rivals in the upcoming rounds.
Published on May 31, 2025
MONO MUTRUS BROTHERS EAGER FOR SEMI-FINALS | SKIPPER
The 26-year-old Skipper for the Mono Mutrus Brothers Mr. Pokapen Pes expressed satisfaction and eagerness to play in the KCK following the KCK Rigo Rice Cup Semi Finals on Sunday 1st June 2025.
Pokapen was also fulfilled alongside his Team, following the KCK Rigo Rice Cup Roadshow, describing it as a real competition ready to stand beside the top tier rugby league competitions in Port Moresby.
Speaking on behalf of his team, Pokapen from Monokam District in Enga Province stressed this while interviewed by PNG HAUSBUNG on semi-final preparations at the KCK Rigo Rice Cup Head Office in Gordons, today, Friday 30th May 2025.
Speaking on behalf of his team, he emphasized that the KCK Rigo Rice Cup competition organizers have brought the standard of grassroots Rugby league to another level and has impressed the team greatly to look forward to the upcoming match against the SS Dolphins.
According to the Pokapen, the Mono Mutrus team believe in the KCK Rigo Rice Cup Competition and at what it stands for, to develop a transparent and well-organized establishment in Rugby League from the Grassroots level, as it has so far delivered on its promises.
Meanwhile, Pokapen pointed out that his team has kept their focus, polishing up their mistakes and making extra improvement for attack and defense efficiency.
“We are well aware that we cannot afford any mistakes during this round.”
“Whatever mistakes we commit won’t be in vain, as there is no coming back from it.”
“Were building our team spirit, were building the win at home to capture the win on the field,” said Pokapen.
Furthermore, Pokapen also extended his heartfelt gratitude to the family and Supporters in Suksuk Market, Hohola for their undying support in the past months leading up to the upcoming match.
“When we are on the field playing, we are playing for our family and supporters at home who believed in us and supported us behind the scenes.”
“Their voice in the crowds gives us a strength to keep pushing forward, we are playing to make them proud,” said Pokapen.
Being no stranger to the game of Rugby League, the Mono Mutrus Brothers hailing from Hohola plan to come alive during the semi-finals and show their true colors on the field.
Published on May 31, 2025
KCK RIGO RICE CUP ROADSHOW FOR MAJOR FINALS
The KCK Rigo Rice Cup sets its course to its Major Finals with an impressive Road show today around Port Moresby.
The roadshow began from Unagi Oval in Gordon and went through Parliament drive, Central Waigani, 4-mile, 3-mile, Manu Auto Port, Sabama-Kaugere, Koki and Hohola, sharing awareness and excitement for the upcoming finals.
While the road show consisted of eight (8 vehicles including an escort by an NCD Police unit, was led by the KCK Rigo Rice Cup Chief Executive Officer himself, Mr. Mcsteve Polly.
Meanwhile, all the four final teams, Mono Mutrus Brothers, SS Dolphins, Morobe Pride and Talai Spartans were organized into five 25 -Seater buses travelling to the main routes Port Moresby city.
The team's participation demonstrated upcoming developments and sportsmanship off the field to support the upcoming major Grassroots Rugby League Competition, the KCK Rigo Rice Cup, to be a top tier Rigby League Competition for young athletes/potentials in Papua New Guinea.
The roadshow has set the tone for the upcoming semi-finals showdown on Sunday June 1st, 2025, at the Hubbert Murray Stadium in Konedobu.
Published on May 30, 2025
KCK RIGO RICE SEMI- FINALS SET FOR THIS WEEKEND
The excitement is boiling over as the countdown begins for the KCK Rigo Rice Cup Major Semi Finals at the Hubert Murray Stadium in Konedobu, Port Moresby.
The KCK Rigo Rice Major Semi-Final will expect a great crowd of supporters and fans in and around the Port Moresby, kicking off this Sunday, 1st June 2025.
The KCK Rigo Rice Cup is one of the most anticipated grassroots rugby league showdowns of the year and will soon take the local grassroots Rugby to another level, with player development.
From a pool of over 60 battling teams since November last year, the final four teams have proved their worth to continue into the Semi-Finals, Mono Mutrus Brothers, SS Dolphins, Talai Spartans, and Morobe Pride.
The 4 top-tier teams are ready to clash head-to-head for their shot at the massive K300,000 cash prize pool.
The stakes are sky-high as two victors from the semi-finals will secure their places in the Grand Final, contesting for the K200,000 first prize, while the runner-up takes home K60,000.
The remaining teams won’t walk away empty-handed either, battling for a solid K40,000 third-place prize.
Platinum sponsor and Rigo Rice owner Jeffery Kennedy has confirmed the full prize distribution, reaffirming his unwavering support to elevate the KCK Rigo Rice Cup to new heights.
“We are ready to make history in Papua New Guinea’s rugby league community,” said Kennedy, urging all players to maintain discipline and professionalism.
The thrilling KCK Rigo Rice Cup grassroots competition is more than just a game, it’s a celebration of raw talent, community pride, and the unshakable spirit of rugby league in PNG.
The Organizers extended heartfelt thanks to all teams and supporters who’ve backed the tournament since its kickoff.
With pride, passion, and K300,000 on the line, this Sunday’s semi-finals promise to be a blast for all rugby league fans.
Published on May 30, 2025
NCD WILL SOON HAVE A NEW POLICE BOSS
Superintendent Warrick Simatab will soon take up his new responsibility as the new Metropolitan Superintendent for the National Capital District (NCD) Police Command.
The Divisional Commander of NCD/Central Assistant Commissioner of Police Benjamin Turi was proud to announce the appointment on Tuesday 26th May 2025.
Having started his career in 1992, Superintendent Simitab rose through the ranks while beginning his service as a constable. He brings experience in operations administration, public safety and criminal investigation within NCD. He served at Police Headquarters in the Human Resource Division, where his leadership and expertise contributed significantly to organizational development. Simitab’s professional journey is a testament to dedication, discipline, and unwavering commitment to public service.
Superintendent Simatab's leadership marks a renewed focus on accountability, professionalism, good governance, and community trust in policing across the National Capital District.
Speaking about his appointment, Superintendent Simatab humbly reaffirmed his commitment to carrying out the duty as Metropolitan Superintendent.
"I’m humbled and honored to be appointed as the Metropolitan Superintendent for the National Capital District. It’s both a privilege and a serious responsibility to serve the people of our nation's capital and to lead the brave men and women of the NCD Police Command."
"I look forward to supporting the Divisional Commander, Assistant Commissioner of Police Benjamin Turi, in implementing the NCD Annual Management Plan. Our collective goal is to align with the Police Commissioner’s strategic direction, ensure the successful delivery of provincial and district development plans, and provide clear, visible indicators of police service delivery to every Papua New Guinean."
At the end of 2023, Superintendent Simatab returned to NCD as the Superintendent Administration, where he was tasked with enhancing the efficiency and effectiveness of the administrative support provided to operational commands.
Published on May 30, 2025
EAST SEPIK MAN SENTENCED TO FOUR YEARS FOR ARMED ROBBERY
30-year-old Edurate Hecko from Kufar Village, East Yangoru Local Level Government (LLG) in East Sepik province is going to spend four years in prison for armed robbery at a Fone Haus outlet in Port Moresby city.
The Boroko District Court convicted Mr. Hecko along with his accomplice, 27-year-old Junior Robert, from Eurupu Village of Kundia Gembogl District on Wednesday 28th May 2025.
The Fone Haus robbery also took an unexpected turn when Former NCD/Central Commander Junior Wagambie was also one of the victims in the scene of the robbery.
Boroko District Court Magistrate Samson Takali while sentencing Mr. Hecko also acknowledged Mr. Robert and emphasized that they must change when they finish their time in prison.
According to Police reports, the initial event saw four convicts in the process of robbing the Central Foundation Mini Supermarket on Thursday, 21st November 2024, between 1:45 and 2:00 PM, when the police encountered and apprehended them after an attempt to escape.
The four were taken to Badili Police Station where they were questioned and later admitted to committing the robbery. They were all armed during the robbery and were about to rob the supermarket, but the police intervened and disturbed them.
They were formally charged with armed robbery by Badili Minor Crimes; however, two of the suspects escaped from Boroko holding cell and are still on the run.
The two escaped suspects were identified by investigators, as 23-year-old Jeremy Herry from Kulip Village in the Liagam District of Enga Province, and 21-year-old Junior Michael of Saora Village in the Rigo District of Central Province.
Meanwhile, case officer Detective Senior Constable (DSC) Kerry Kaman pointed out a warrant for arrest for the two escaped suspects. He stresses that the two are involved in a link of crimes in the city and are dangerous to the community.
He said the photos of the two will be published on the Facebook page for the public to assist in locating them.
DSC Kaman further urged the pubic to contact the police hotline number at 180 0100 or inbox the NCD/Central Command Facebook Page for any information that can identify their whereabouts.
Published on May 30, 2025