The Hidimo Brothers' Head Coach and Team Manager, Mr. Noel Aria is set on a mission to develop rugby league in the Milne Bay Province. His efforts include youth engagement and skill development in the KCK Rigo Rice Cup. The Hidimo Brothers is the only team from Milne Bay to travel to Port Moresby city to participate in the new and improved KCK Rigo Rice Cup Competition Leg-2. Aria sees rugby league as not just a sport but a pathway for youth in discipline, education, fellowship and opportunities which are created from taking part in competition, hence his current focus is on refining the basics, including discipline in attack and defensive tactics and clarifying respective roles, to build a competitive team that can stand its ground against experienced opponents. Despite losing several players due to their commitment to their academic studies, Aria adapted from his experience in Port Moresby Rugby league by incorporating available players from Port Moresby into his squad. Their performance, although not perfect, has shown promise. Narrow losses, such as the 16-14 game reflected the potentials within his team. Mr. Aria stressed that beyond the game, he envisions rugby as a tool for societal impact. He’s currently working to help players access educational opportunities, emphasizing the balance between sport, academics and fellowship. Despite minimal support, Mr. Aria remains committed to seeing through what he has started.

The reopening of the refurbished NCD Police Prosecution Office not only marked an infrastructural improvement but also underscored the broader commitment of the Papua New Guinea-Australia Policing Partnership (PNG-APP) to strengthening law enforcement in the country. The NCD and Central Commander-Assistant Commissioner of Police Benjamin Turi and Papua New Guinea-Australia Policing Partnership (PNG-APP) Officer Conrad Jensen commenced the official ribbon-cutting today at the Boroko Police Headquarters in Port Moresby. Speaking at the event, Mr. Conrad Jensen of the PNG-APP emphasized that while modern facilities are essential, the true backbone of justice lies in the dedicated police prosecutors who uphold the rule of law. He highlighted the partnership’s recognition of prosecution services as a fundamental pillar of policing and reaffirmed Australia’s commitment to supporting law enforcement in PNG. Mr. Jensen outlined that beyond infrastructure, the PNG-APP focusses on key aspects of police operations, including leadership development, discipline, and operational efficiency. He noted that recent projects, such as the establishment of a new police operations center, are part of a broader strategy to enhance policing capabilities across NCD and Central Province. With ongoing investments in facilities, training, and professional development, the PNG-APP initiative continues to strengthen crucial roles in ensuring that law enforcement agencies in PNG are equipped to deliver justice and maintain public safety effectively.

The National Capital District (NCD) Police reopened Police Prosecution and Operations Center Office at the Police Headquarters in Boroko, Port Moresby today. The event saw the presence of Assistant Commissioner of Police Benjamin Turi, Chief Police Prosecution Officer Binuali Boas and Papua New Guinea Australia Policing Partnership Sir Conrad Jensen, including Police Prosecution Personnel. Apart from the Prosecutions office, the Police Operation Center for Communication and Jail-cell were also refurbished. The operation centre is equipped with state-of-the-art computer-operating stations to standby for urgent communication for advance coordination during operations. Meanwhile, the Boroko Cell has an upgrade with new steel bars and barbwires to keep detainees from breaking out. Barbwires fully cover the ceiling along with reinforced (16mm thickness) steel rods mounted on the windows to prevent cutting or breakouts. According to PNG APP Officer Detective Inspector (DI) Brad Lyon, this week will see the police personnel move into the new refurbished buildings with full operation set for next week. The Boroko Police Headquarter proudly showcased their new facility and are confident to utilize these upgrades to ensure law and order prevails in the city.

The KCK Rigo Rice Cup (RRC) apart from promoting the sport of rugby league, has also steadily impacted the brand of Rigo Rice Industry with demands for Rigo Rice product reaching unprecedented levels. According to KCK RRC CEO McSteven Poly, the tournament has not only captivated football enthusiasts but also created a surge in rice sales, reaching its initial expectations. "The observed shortages of Rigo Rice in the main commercial supplier "Eliseo" is evidence to the overwhelming demand. This spike stems from the integration of the product into the tournament’s branding and rewards system, with rice being distributed as prizes and widely promoted throughout the event," said Mr. Poly. However, he said the stock shortage has posed logistical challenges as well, with the supplier struggling to maintain sufficient inventory to meet the increased demand. Nevertheless, Mr. Polly emphasized that the ultimate goal of the tournament was to create a platform that merges sports and business while elevating the visibility of Rigo Rice. After five years of continuous efforts, the synergy between football and the rice industry has proven successful. The grand finale of the tournament is a potential stage to boost further sales and reinforce Rigo Rice’s standing as a household name. The tournament exemplifies how sports can drive economic activity and create lasting community connections.

The Simbu Provincial Police Commander (PPC), Superintendent, Mazuc Rubiang expressed gratitude to efforts for negotiating a peace agreement over a tribal fight. PPC Rubiang commended his police personnel and the leaders of Sambuga Wauga in Kerowagi for establishing a level of understanding between the two warring clans, Gurumugl- Kerenga and Dimbai- Gawale. PPC Rubiang confirmed that the tribal war has claimed seven lives and valuable properties destroyed as well, including the Kerenga Primary School and an Aid Post. The seven deaths, four were from Gurumugl/Kerenga clansmen whilst three were from Dimbai/Gawale clansmen. He said both warring factions used high-powered firearms during the tribal fights. According to PPC Rubiang, misleading reports of domestic violence between two married couples allegedly sparked a tribal fight between the wife's clansmen, Dimbal/Gawale, and the husband's clansmen, Gurumugl/Kerenga, from November 11, 2024, to January 13, 2025. The warring clans were believed to be from the mountains of Enduga ward six in Kup Local Level Government (LLG), Kerowagi, Simbu Province. Mr. Rubiang stated that despite the loss of lives and property destruction, ongoing peace negotiations and awareness efforts by police and community leaders led the warring clans to agree on peace talks. These talks have resulted in the scheduled "Brukim Sugar" peace ceremony on February 6th, 2025. PPC Rubiang said the police personnel and the mediation team would camp in the fighting zone for seven days prior to the actual peace ceremony to ensure peace and order is maintained. “I thank all the police personnel for their tireless efforts in conducting awareness for the warring clans to lay down arms, cease fighting and let peace ceremony take effect. “I also commend the leaders of Sambuga Wauga of Kerowagi for creating the initiative and moved into the fighting zones and assisted police in conducting awareness for peace. Mr. Rubiang commended the leaders for their fearless approach in ensuring the safety of others and thanked the Catholic Church in Mingendi for donating rations to support the Sambuga Wauga leaders camping with the police in the fighting zones. PPC Rubiang urged all provincial leaders to help maintain law and order in their communities and the province.

The Acting Commissioner of Police (CP) Donald Yamasombi issued strict warning to business houses to fully exercise acumen when advertising or marketing their brand. The Acting CP remarked on this matter following complaints that a company in the gaming and lottery business has accused a competitor of maliciously plotting to sabotage their operations nationwide. The acting Commissioner addressed the issue following these complaints. The Acting CP urged this after NCD Police arrested a woman last week for allegedly posted and circulated a public notice on social media purportedly from the National Gaming Controller Board, labelling No.1 Lotto as an illegal and unauthorized operator. Allegations have surfaced against individuals accused of disrupting No.1 Lotto agents' business operations nationwide. Additionally, there are claims that policemen were involved in sabotaging businesses selling No.1 Lotto scratch cards. Complaints have been filed regarding these incidents. Acting CP highlighted the serious allegations against the suspect and advised businesses to respect the law and others' rights. Mr. Yamasombi further emphasized the importance of creating a supportive and respective nature towards the laws of doing business in PNG. He instructed police nationwide to ensure businesses can operate without harassment or intimidation, urging constabulary members to also act professionally and decisively. Furthermore, he urged state institutes to be proactive and take responsibility for regulation, emphasizing that businesses should not regulate competitors, citing No.1 Lotto's case. The national Gaming Control Board should ensure legal operations, with Police assisting in enforcement. Mr. Yamasombi warned police against supporting private business interests to harass competitors. “Members who disregard this advice will be dealt with severely,” said Yamasombi.

The KCK Rigo Rice Cup (RRC) tournament has seen impressive progress and an expanding level of participation across its four competitive legs. KCK RRC Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Mr. McSteven Poly told PNG HAUSBUNG that the KCK Rigo Rice Cup tournament has successfully concluded its first leg and is currently in the third game of the second leg, moving into the Quarter Finals. “With teams advancing strategically, the competition is expected to wrap up the second leg within two weeks before transitioning to the third leg,” said Mr. Polly. He stated, “A highlight of this year’s tournament has been the increasing demand from teams eager to participate. More than 16 teams are currently engaged, and with new registrations pouring in, the organizers anticipate hosting 30 to 40 teams by the third leg.” This growth demonstrates the tournament's rising prominence among players. Furthermore, Mr. Poly stressed that despite the challenges encountered such as doubts about the tournament's authenticity during its early stages, the management has worked diligently to maintain the schedule and ensure fair play. The finals are scheduled for late February to early March, and the top eight teams will compete in the decisive final-rounds. The growing number of participants underscores the KCK RRC’s success in fostering competitive football and community engagement.

Police officers from Central province swiftly recovered a stolen black Toyota Prado vehicle at the 15 Mile just outside Port Moresby city, following a tip off. The Central Provincial Police Commander (PPC), acting Superintendent, Joseph Salle confirmed that the Central Police has returned the stolen motor vehicle to the rightful owners at the Plywood business yard at Madoguba, Laloki along Hiritano Highway in Central province. PPC Salle stated that, after receiving a tip-off, a coordinated police response by the Central Quick Response Force (QRF), Rural Base Team 03 (RB03), and the 15 Mile Unit, with the assistance of locals, led to the recovery of the stolen vehicle at the 15 Mile area. PPC Salle stated that the incident occurred on Monday 23rd January at 10am, where more than seven armed suspects with homemade pistols and offensive weapons forcefully entered the Plywood business yard and stole the vehicle (registration number: CBF 094), K30,000.00 cash money including three smart phones. Furthermore, Salle confirmed that three Chinese Nationals and One Bangladesh National was injured during the ransack. PPC Salle praised his officers for the quick recovery of the stolen vehicle, attributing it to coordinated teamwork and prompt police response.

Community Representative to Wawin National School of Excellence Governing Council Board, Mr. Jim Kelly has raised concerns over poor government services linking Morobe's top secondary school. Kelly, who represents surrounding communities of Wawin National School of Excellence outside Lae city in Morobe province, said road and electricity services connecting the Wawin area are very bad. “As schools throughout the nation are preparing to commence academic calendar for this year, the road linking Morobe's top secondary school is in a bad condition.” “Lack of government's attention on the road has seen flooding from a nearby creek causing damages and sometimes impassable for vehicles.” “Our school vehicles will negotiate the worst road condition on a daily basis, and I fear costs on meeting mechanical problems and chances of criminals taking advantages on the road condition to attack students, parents or school staff who travel to do school runs.” Further concerns were also raised based on an experience that occurred last year where criminals took advantage over the bad road conditions and held the principal at gun point in which they stole K15, 000 cash as well as other valuable items. “Apart from the National School of Excellence accessing this road, we have Morobe Provincial Department of Agriculture and Livestock (DAL), Bismark Farm, Santos PNG and PNG Biomas as well who are accessing this road.” In addition, electricity services connecting the area are also in a very poor condition and with that, Kelly stated that almost half of the school's budget goes to cover fuel and the standby generator services to maintain annual academic activities. “We have plans to put funds into different activities, however, due to constant power blackouts, we repeat on putting funds on maintaining electricity flow in the school campus.” Kelly added that Wawin was ranked second in the country in terms of academic performances, and the governing board is concerned on having a smooth flow of academic activities this year without any hiccups to maintain the results.

Wawin National School of Excellence in Morobe province spends almost all its overall budget to maintain the flow of electricity when PNG Power fails to maintain a consistent power supply. Morobe's top secondary school operates outside of Lae city which caters for students from all around the country. According to the school administration, the school has a budget of K100, 000 to cater for general expenses annually. However, due to continuous inconsistency supply of power to the school, the school pulls almost all portion of its budget to cater expenses on standby generator, technical person who works on the standby generator and the servicing of the standby generator. School principal, Mr. Pal Pu said the school uses two standby generators to maintain the smooth flow of activities on the campus. “We have one standby generator that supplies power to the school campus when there is a power blackout. Another standby generator is used on pumping bore water into storage area then to school campus.” “Because of the inconsistent power supply from PNG Power, we spend K80, 000 annually on standby generators to maintain electricity and water supply in the school and with that, almost all portion of the school operational budget covers electricity flow.” “We have no choice but to put budget allocations annually for the unexpected power interruptions to ensure students learning is delivered.” Community representative to school governing Council Hoard, Mr. Jim Kelly said budget allocations for electricity alone has been burdening the school on looking at other areas to transform the school infrastructures and learning qualities. “The government needs to seriously consider improving one of its service deliveries which is power supply and if the government is serious about delivering quality education, then it should look at improving some of its areas especially power," said Mr. Kelly. “All portion of the funding that goes on maintaining electricity flow alone should have been allocated to other important areas like Communications and Internet services.” “The standard of using technology has improved and we should be looking at putting our budget priorities on ICTC areas. However, due to the power blackout problem, the school continues to spend money on maintaining electricity flow." In addition, Wawin National School of Excellence was ranked second in the academic performances out of all secondary schools in the country, which was good news, hence they wanted this year to be free from any hiccups.

In a thrilling encounter at Bava Park in Port Moresby city during Leg-2 Round 3 of the Rigo Rice Cup, saw two teams do battle in what can only be described as a very close match. The Hidomo Brothers showed remarkable tenacity against the United FM3 Bulldogs though the match ended in a close 12-10 match. Bulldogs' Half Back Ezekiel Mandi proved to be a standout player, delivering a crucial conversion in the second half that turned the tide to the United Finance M3 Bulldogs. Hidomo Brothers displayed dominance in the first half with Emmanuel Tulia crossing the line in the 24th minute followed by an addition early 2-points penalty kick by Dickson Amea, secured the first half. The Bulldogs managed to put points on the board in the 12th-minute from a penalty kick by Ezekiel Mandi, ending the half trailing 2-6. However, the Bulldogs' showcased a fighting spirit which proved lethal in the final minutes. Branden Peter scored a try alongside Taka Boi in the 51st and 60th minute. Bulldogs Halfback Ezekiel Mandi sealed the deal with a pinpoint conversion after Boi’s try, bringing the Bulldogs in a 2-points lead despite a late try by Hidomo Brothers’ Brael Bita sealed their victory. Though the Bulldogs fell short, Ezekiel Mandi’s calm under pressure and his decisive kicking were a testament to his skill and potential, making him a player to watch as the competition progresses.

The S.S Dolphins continued their stellar form in Leg-2 Round 3 of the Rigo Rice Cup, securing a commanding 28-12 win over the Gabi Warriors at Bava Park Field 2 in Port Moresby city. This win on Saturday 25th January marked the Dolphins’ third consecutive victory in their pool, showcasing their dominance in the tournament. The Dolphins wasted no time, with outside center Tipson Tuliza scoring the opening try in the first minute. Junior Peter and Benson Tai followed with tries in the 17th and 34th minutes, respectively, with halfback Ita Paison converting two of them successfully. Despite Gabi Warriors’ hooker Dominic Perry scoring in the 12th minute and converted by Camilus Sauka, the Dolphins led 16-6 at halftime. The second half saw the Dolphins' momentum extend their lead. Fullback Jacob Peter scored in the 40th minute, followed by Tuliza’s second try in the 50th minute, converted by Adrian Mombi. The Warriors managed a try by Gege Nick in the 45th minute, converted by Sauka, but it wasn’t enough to close the gap. Although two sinbins for the Dolphins, their consistent attacking play and solid defense ensured a decisive 28-12 victory. With their third straight win, the S.S Dolphins are proving to be strong contenders in the Rigo Rice Cup.