The Fiji Bati clinched a dominant 56-6 victory on home soil over the Cook Islands Aitu in Week 2 of the Pacific Bowl Championship in an exhilarating showdown at HFC Bank Stadium, Suva. With fine weather and on excellent field conditions, the Fijians showcased their power and precision, outscoring their opponents with a staggering 10 tries to 1. Despite an early breakthrough by Cook Islands’ Rua Ngatikaura who crossed the try-line in the 10th minute following a successful conversion by Steven Marsters to give Cook Islands an early 6-point edge, this was quickly countered with Fiji Bati scoring four (4) tries in the second half. Fiji's fullback Sunia Turuva scored the first try at the 14-minute mark, sparking a series of continuous drives from the Fiji Bati. Michael Jennings proved to be a standout, securing two tries within 8 minutes (19’ and 27’), complimented by successful conversions from Taane Milne, who played a key role in the team’s conversion accuracy. Fiji took a 24-6 lead into halftime, setting the tone for an explosive second half. The second half saw an even stronger Fijian offense scoring six (6) tries in the second while the Cook Islands struggled to maintain their defensive form. Fiji showcased a standout performance from Semi Valemei, Ben Nakubuwai, and Maika Sivo, who each added to the try count, further solidifying Fiji's lead. Jennings added another try at the 60-minute mark, and Sivo’s consecutive tries in the 69th and 71st minutes effectively sealed the game. With eight conversions from ten attempts, Fiji displayed exceptional accuracy, particularly from Milne, who converted six of the team’s points. By full-time, the scoreline was a resounding 56-6 in favor of Fiji Bati scoring 10 tries and six (6) successful conversions, marking a significant boost in their Pacific Bowl campaign. The victory not only underscores Fiji’s attacking prowess but also places them in a strong position moving forward in the championship. The Cook Islands Aitu are left with the challenge to regroup ahead of their next matchup against the Papua New Guinea (PNG) Kumuls in week 3 of the Pacific Championship on Sunday 3rd of November in PNG at the Santos National Football Stadium in Port Moresby a 3pm.

7 suspects involved in the shootout massacre on Tuesday 22nd of October in Sirunki surrendered to police yesterday at Tambitanis area near Surinki, Enga Province. The local leader in Surinki yesterday surrendered 7 suspects involved in the shootout in Surinki resulting in 6 people being instantly killed on the 22nd of October. The Enga Provincial Police Commander chief Inspector Fred Yakasa told PNG HAUSBUNG that investigation carried out is slowly making progress. The Enga Police personnel under the command of the PPC Yakasa on Friday paid a surprise visit to Tambitanis community to collect suspects involved in the recent shootout and were answered through the cooperation of the local leaders. Despite local leaders insisting on collecting suspects from previous incidents, PPC Yakasa remained firm with the intention to recover suspects from the most recent incident, which he was pleased to see cooperate with local leaders. According to PPC Yakasa, 8 suspects were to be arrested and charged but one suspect was very ill unable to unfit to endure the condition of jail. However, an agreement was reached with the local leaders to later collect the individual suspect after his recovery. The seven suspects are believed to be from Mulitaka, Surinki and Laiagam are currently locked away in Wabag police station. Law enforcement officials are currently carrying out mediating peace talks with local leaders from various tribes while police maintain their objective to suppress and disperse any potential conflict that may occur. Enga Police Personnel are now camping in Surinki High school to adequately ensure and maintain public safety and security in Surinki.

PNG Ports Corporation Limited (PNG Ports) delivers a net profit of over K100 million, for the third consecutive year exceeding K100million. The State-Owned Enterprise reported a Net Operating Profit after Tax (NOPAT) of approximately K110,053,586 for the 2023 fiscal year, indicating a notable recovery following the severe effects of the COVID pandemic on the maritime sector. PNG Ports has declared a dividend of approximately K27.5 million to Kumul Consolidated Holdings for the 2023 fiscal year, contributing to nearly K320 million in total profits over the past three years, including K102.6 million in 2021 and K104.5 million in 2022. According to CEO Neil Papenfus, PNG Ports' 2023 profit is credited to increased vessel traffic and enhanced efficiency, along with effective financial management of key revenue sources such as wharfage, berthage, storage, pilotage, and terminal leasing. PNG Ports operates in a demand-driven industry where an increase in the demand for trade causes higher vessel calls and greater cargo volumes in and out of a port. However, PNG Ports’ overall capacity to generate a profit is impacted by its requirement to operate and look after its 12 Community Service Obligation (CSO) ports, which all run at a loss. “These CSO ports,” says Mr. Papenfus, “are essentially subsidized by the profitable ports of Lae, Port Moresby and Kimbe.” “To continue to generate profits and simultaneously operate and maintain all 15 ports, PNG Ports is developing new revenue streams such as a Pilotage School, embarking on a program of process improvement and re- engineering, with plans to overhaul its IT system." Mr. Papenfus stated that these initiatives aim at enhancing efficiency and customer experience will position PNG Ports to meet current and future industry demands. He also paid tribute to the late Kiniafa for the decisions made which were now producing results, and the guidance of the Board, as well as the management and staff for the hard work and commitment in PNG Ports’ ongoing profitability and success. He further praised Chief Commercial Officer Ian Hayden-Smart for his leadership following the unexpected passing of former CEO Fego Kiniafa in 2022. He added that the 2024 fiscal year had started off strong, with good results also expected as the SOE reviews its corporate strategies to strategically align itself to continue serving this nation.

Papua New Guinea Women’s Rugby League (PNGRFL) naming rights of sponsor Santos celebrated 70 years of operation and announced its continued support through a 3-year multimillion-kina sponsorship signing to the PNG Orchids on Friday at the National Football Stadium in Port Moresby. The event was attended by the Santos Country Chair PNG Mr. Leon Buskens, PNGRFL Chief Executive Officer Mr. Stanley Hondina and PNG Orchids Chairlady Celestine Ove. The sponsorship by Santos will focus on junior and school rugby league development coaching and staff, technical, travel and accommodation including international fixtures for the Orchids leading up to the 2026 World Cup. Mr. Buskens on behalf of Santos acknowledged the sponsorship as a partnership and is proud to work with the Women game in PNG to empower women, in line with its values in building a better future. Furthermore, Buskens emphasized the purpose behind the partnership to deliver positive outcomes for a better world, with the PNG Orchids as a platform for young women and girls to realise their full potential to grow to be better individuals and citizens. “Our sponsorship looks beyond the jersey, it's about advocating for all women and girls in our family, our communities and country through our national sports.” Starting with their sponsorship in 2017 under Oil Search, Santos has been a leader in the elite women’s rugby league in PNG. This year Santos became the naming rights sponsor to the first national women’s game. PNGRFL CEO Mr. Hondina expressed gratitude to Santos' Board, Management, and staff for their ongoing support of women’s rugby in PNG, emphasizing that partners like Santos help improve the game and enhance PNGRFL programs. Celebrating 70 years in 2024, this highlights the long-term investment in Papua New Guinea, marked by strong partnerships with communities, local employment, healthcare, disaster relief, sustainable agriculture, infrastructure, and literacy programs, alongside empowerment initiatives for women, youth, and landowners.

The United Nations Papua New Guinea (UNPNG) celebrated United Nations Day 2024 today with a discussion panel and theme, “United for you, how you can work with the United Nations to a better PNG.” The event had the attendance of Primary and High school students, student representatives of the University of Papua New Guinea, including the United Nations Resident Coordinator (UNRC) Mr. Richard Howard, UNDP Resident Representative Mr. Nicholas Booth and esteemed heads of UN Agencies, at the Sir John Guise Stadium, Port Moresby. The event shared significant discussions on challenges in all aspects of local community-based issues in PNG. The discussions were shared by significant senior UN colleagues and representatives from the different UN agencies. Opening the event Mr. Howard expressed his gratitude and acknowledgment to students and senior colleagues for their presence and support, stressing that the organization is nothing without support. United Nations Fund for Population Activities Coordinator and Advocate Edwin Terwel Ningal conducted a discussion panel with significant UNPNG agency heads on their experience within the agency and role and contributions under the UNPNG. The discussions elaborated on ongoing issues in PNG such as, Violence against women, Illegal Gun Violence, Tribal Violence, Underage Drinking and Smoking, Climate Change, Development in Agricultural, etc, each topic was adequately discussed leaving room for queries from the full house audience. According to students, the discussions were intriguing, informative and captivating moments as all aspects and perspectives were discussed with precise and accurate explanations to properly handle common challenges on a formal level and public level The day was filled with attendance of youth, parents and interested individuals who share the common goal for future wellbeing, especially in PNG.

The recent violent payback attacks along the Laiagam-Sirunki Highway have resulted in nine individuals dead and many others severely injured in Enga Province, triggered by an unresolved death case. This is according to the Acting Assistant Commissioner for Police (A/ACP) Joseph Tondop and Command Highland Western End. According to a recent statement from A/ACP Tondop on the 22nd of October, these incidents mark a revenge plot in tribal violence. The recent conflict on Tuesday 22nd of October is tied to the death of Mulapin Kulyapane in March 2024, who was brutally killed, sparking a cycle of retaliatory violence that is unprecedented in the region’s history. The key suspects in this earlier case have reportedly gone into hiding, complicating efforts to restore peace. In response to the rising violence, A/ACP Joseph Tondop mobilized the Investigation Task Force (ITF) and Criminal Investigation Departments (CID) to conduct thorough investigations into the events. Tondop's directives include immediate investigations, increased security measures, and a temporary curfew to deter further escalations. He committed to documenting each case meticulously and has called on the community for cooperation. The recent event on Tuesday 22nd of October triggered violence due to the suspended case in March, with an empty attempt to apprehend the man responsible. The first incident began with an ambush by gunmen from the Mulapin tribe on October 18, targeting a vehicle carrying passengers from the Sakare clan. The attack, which occurred near Tambitanis Health Centre, led to the death of a woman and serious injuries to others. Just hours later, in retaliation, members of the Sakare clan ambushed a public vehicle, resulting in the driver and crew sustaining fatal injuries. Amidst this turmoil, the leadership of the Kunalin and Lyain tribes, known for their advocacy of peace, have called for restraint and urged their communities to avoid further violence. They are actively cooperating with law enforcement to ensure justice prevails, emphasizing the need for suspects from both tribes to surrender peacefully. The situation remains dire, with the most recent attack on October 22 resulting in six deaths, including that of a bus driver, during an ambush by the Lyain clan. With two individuals on life support and the status of others unknown, the urgency for action has intensified. A/ACP Tondop has urged community members to avoid roadblocks and cooperate with authorities as the investigations unfold, reaffirming that there is no refuge for those involved in the violence. This tragic series of events underscores the need for immediate interventions to restore peace and security in Enga Province, as community leaders and law enforcement work together to prevent further loss of life.

Prime Minister James Marape has announced that a bill will be presented in Parliament in November to enhance law enforcement powers, following the recent surge in tribal-related violence in Enga Province. PM Marape stressed this in a media statement today. Marape also announced that the Cabinet has approved a domestic terrorism bill, to be presented in November. The bill grants extensive powers to law enforcement for searches, rapid responses, and the use of drones and technology to curb lawlessness and prosecute offenders. Prime Minister Marape mentioned that, in response to recent violence in Enga, he has met with the Police Commissioner, the PNGDF Commander, and concerned ministers, and has directed the extension of the State of Emergency along the Highlands Highway, covering Laiagam, Kompiam, Porgera, and Wabag districts. PM Marape emphasized the extension of the State of Emergency and directed the Police and Defense Force to make arrests instead of mediating tribal conflicts. Acknowledging reports describing this incident as a revenge killing, he condemned the recent killings in the Highlands Highway area, urging people to avoid using guns for revenge and emphasizing that tribal revenge has no place in modern society. Marape further stated that the Government is considering outlawing compensation and increasing penalties, including life imprisonment, for those who initiate tribal conflicts. He emphasized the need to hold those responsible for tribal fights accountable, as these conflicts cause significant socio-economic problems for communities. Additionally, PM Marape indicated that Parliament might be called upon to pass the State of Emergency (SOE) for the highlands provinces experiencing higher incidents of lawlessness. He added that instructions have been given to Treasury to resource the enforcing agencies to better maintain law and order in the provinces and the National Capital District (NCD).

The PNG LNG Kumuls has defeated the Vodafone Fiji Bati 22-10 in their impressive and thrilling first encounter of the 2024 Pacific Rugby League Bowl Championship match at the HFC Bank Stadium, Suva, Fiji. The first half of the match was dominated by the Kumuls with three tries. Robert Derby opened the scoring in the 17th minute for the Kumuls by an intercept, followed by a try from Judah Rimbu in the 25th minute, and a third try for the Kumuls from Sylvester Namo with two minutes left on the clock before half time. The Kumuls led 16-0 in the first half. The Bati's first try came in the 7th minute of the second half from Semi Valemei. The Kumuls maintained the pressure on the Bati and managed to come away with a try from Nene McDonald to put them ahead to 22-4. Bati had the final say as Maika Sivo scored the second try in the last seconds of the match. The Kumuls will host the Cook Islands on Sunday November 3 at the Santos National Footbal Stadium in their second match of the Pacific Rugby League Bowl Championship.

The National Capital District (NCD) and Central Province police have confirmed the conflict on the 14th of October in 8mile Port Moresby occurred over theft. The Acting Commander of Police for Central province and NCD, Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP) Peter Guiness confirmed in a statement that the conflict erupted after a man from Marawaka in the Eastern Highlands province was caught stealing in a house. ACP Guiness stressed that the man was captured and seriously wounded. He was then taken to be treated at Six Mile Hospital, but he managed to escape. Upon his escape and returning to Eight Mile, his tribesmen retaliated against those who had caught him, which then led to the conflict. Around 8:44AM to 9:00 AM on Wednesday 16th October, the fight erupted. A lone policeman arrived to pick up a staff member and confronted a group armed with bows, arrows, and bush knives. Despite his calls to stop, they ignored him. While the policeman managed to save some individuals, one man from Marawaka was killed. ACP Guinness said backup police units arrived and stopped the fight and transported the body of the deceased to the hospital morgue. The police homicide team arrived on the scene, identified witnesses, and began investigating the man’s death. They have identified possible suspects and are working tirelessly to apprehend those involved in the fight, murder, and theft. Meanwhile, ACP Guinness further added that the incident at Gordons this morning was in relation to a fight that happened yesterday where a bus- 16 crew had a confrontation with a vendor where the vendor was seriously wounded. The vendor, according to the police, is also from Enga. He said during the fight several vehicles were damaged. Police quickly responded to the fighting and contained the situation. He said the situation is contained but things are still tense. "Otherwise, the situation around the city is quiet with police officers patrolling the streets in and around the city." "People moving around the city are encouraged to take extra precautions because police won't be at all the locations." “It's best before you leave your house, you plan your day, so you come early, do your business and go home early. With the influx of people coming into the city the crime rate had also increased," he said. ACP Guiness concluded by admitting that the police are outnumbered, and now call on the government to seriously look at implementing the Vagrancy Act that will help control the movement of people. "We do respect their right to move but it must be genuine when travelling into the city or town."

National Capital District (NCD) Metropolitan Superintendent (Met Supt) Silva Sika has urged grade-12 students in NCD to behave after their exams to avoid illegal activities. Met Supt Sika in an interview today with PNG HAUSBUNG said our future leaders in grade-12 must avoid any event that may result in the consumption of illicit material from alcohol to drugs and consider their future wellbeing at this crucial time as crime increases in the city. While acknowledging the fluctuating violence eruption in and round NCD, Met Supt Sika stated the violent incidents should trigger the national examination students including the public to consider safety measures while travelling into hotspot areas in the city. Met Supt Sika further emphasized that all the students who sat for 2024 National examinations are just beginning their journey in life and urged that students must respect and celebrate their accomplishments appropriately. Furthermore, Sika stressed that students must not misuse their parent's efforts to provide the opportunity to study. Sika concluded by reiterating that incidents around Port Moresby city are becoming unpredictable, and precautions must be taken to maintain personal security and safety.

Opportunists in Gordons, NCD today retaliated after failing to steal from a young lady. This is according to National Capital District Metropolitan Superintendent (NCD Met Supt) Silva Sika in an interview with PNG HAUSBUNG today. Met Supt Sika said a bus driver who had witnessed the incident saved the young woman but was faced with a fight that followed by the opportunist and his companions. This resulted in a clash involving several bus owners and opportunists in Gordons. NCD Met Supt Sika further confirmed police are present and will be patrolling throughout the day. He further urged the public to travel in pairs at such times and take care. Meanwhile, despite the magnitude of the violent clashes, there have been no casualties or major injuries sustained as reported at this time. There are very little public motor vehicles (PMV’s) in the area at present. NCD police will continue to patrol the area in a bid to restore order and normalcy to the Gordons market area.

Tourism Minister Belden Namah strongly supports Prime Minister James Marape’s plan to include a Papua New Guinea (PNG) team in the Australian NRL by 2028. Following the Prime Minister’s XIII game against Australia on Sunday, PNG Rugby Football League Chairman Sandis Tsaka also expressed excitement about the proposal. This initiative to bring the NRL to PNG symbolizes a new chapter for sports and tourism, showcasing the spirit and unity of Papua New Guinea. “Sports is something that unifies the country. The prime minister is absolutely right when he says that sports is ‘unity in diversity’ in PNG,” Minister Namah stated. Namah highlighted the link between tourism and sports, explaining, “When you look at it from a tourism perspective, sports are about tourism as well. Tourism is about promoting sports. When you look at a holistic view of what our government is doing, this is a decision in the right direction.” “The NRL coming into PNG is big time. Families and supporters will come here from all over the world to see their favorite players." "This is big-time tourism for the country. It will change how people see PNG." "The onus is now on our people to embrace this and start changing our mentality because the world is coming to PNG. We have to be prepared for that. I believe we are going in the right direction," Namah said. Chairman Tsaka reflected on the significance of Sunday’s game, stating that the game was broadcast live throughout the Pacific through Channel 9 and Foxtel, as well as Sky TV in New Zealand, and the attention of the rugby league world was on PNG. “These herald the beginning of what we will be doing in the NRL," Tsaka said, adding, "What a great atmosphere! Digicel, through TVWan, also carried the game live throughout the country. Our ground staff were tested to the maximum as we had to work to broadcast times because the game was watched live across the world. “I’m proud of the ground staff for delivering the event, as well as the players for coming together to showcase what the sport means to us." "Rugby league is more than just a sport; it brings together a nation of diverse tribes and languages and builds on the Australia-PNG relationship.” “We’re thankful to the Australian government and the NRL for partnering with our government. We’re thankful to both prime ministers and the cabinets of both countries for allowing us to nurture this important industry that brings our countries and people together.”