Australia has delivered two Bell 412 helicopters to the Royal Papua New Guinea Constabulary in a major boost to policing and emergency response operations across the country.

The helicopters arrived in Lae yesterday under the Papua New Guinea-Australia Policing Partnership and are expected to strengthen crime prevention, search and rescue missions, and rapid deployment operations in remote regions.

Deputy Prime Minister and Lae MP John Rosso, who officiated at the handover ceremony, described the arrival as a historic moment for the police force.

“This is the first of its kind for the RPNGC to have such aviation capabilities that will help boost the work of the police,” Mr Rosso said.

He said the support reflected the strong partnership between Papua New Guinea and Australia and thanked the Australian Federal Police for providing the aircraft.

Police Commissioner David Manning said the helicopters would significantly improve police mobility and operational reach in difficult terrain.

“PNG’s remote and vast terrain makes the return of the helicopters essential for preventing crime and keeping our people safe,” Commissioner Manning said.

The helicopters are expected to begin frontline operations after all aviation compliance requirements are completed. They will support law and order operations, humanitarian assistance and disaster relief missions throughout the country.

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Acting Public Prosecutor Helen Roalakona later informed the Commission that she would not proceed with the case, stating that the material submitted lacked evidence that was “insufficient, not credible and cogent” across all allegations.

Following that decision, the Ombudsman Commission said it relied on constitutional reserve powers provided under Section 29(2) of the Constitution and Section 27(3) of the Organic Law on the Duties and Responsibilities of Leadership to take the matter directly to the NEC.

The Commission argued that it retains authority to act where it considers that a case has not been prosecuted within a reasonable time or where a matter has not been properly referred to a tribunal.

Chief Ombudsman Richard Pagen said the Commission was satisfied that the case involving Sir Gibbs warranted further consideration and had therefore forwarded its statement of reasons to the Chairman of the NEC.

The Commission also referred to Supreme Court Reference No.3 of 2005, which outlined the responsibilities of the Public Prosecutor in leadership matters and clarified procedures relating to tribunal referrals.

The NEC is now expected to determine whether a tribunal should be appointed to investigate the allegations against the Chief Justice.

Acting Public Prosecutor Helen Roalakona said the evidence presented was “insufficient, not credible and cogent”.

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• PNG future in doubt as Philemon condemns corruption in leadership
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• PM Marape Hails Luai Visit as Boost for PNG Rugby League Dream

Speaking during a media briefing on Sunday, Mr Marape said the meeting comes as Pacific nations continue to face the effects of rising sea levels, warmer oceans, pollution and environmental decline that threaten communities across the region.

He said the summit provides an opportunity for Pacific countries to transform regional leadership into practical commitments that will safeguard oceans and marine ecosystems for future generations.

“Our Ocean sustains our food security, cultures, economies and climate resilience,” Mr Marape said.

“By working together, we can protect our marine biodiversity, strengthen sustainable livelihoods, and build an ocean future grounded in partnership, stewardship and shared prosperity.”

Mr Marape said oceans play a vital role in sustaining life on Earth, contributing to the water cycle, storing carbon emissions and producing oxygen essential for survival.

He said Earth remains unique because of its water systems, warning that the destruction of oceans and aquatic ecosystems would threaten the future of the planet itself.

The Prime Minister said Pacific countries should not be viewed simply as small island states because they oversee vast ocean territories that are globally important to environmental balance.

He said one of the expected outcomes of the conference would be stronger regional commitments to preserve at least 30 per cent of sovereign ocean areas from destructive exploitation and environmental harm.

Mr Marape also called on industrialised countries and major carbon-emitting nations to work alongside Pacific states in protecting oceans and forests.

“We ask those nations who hold large carbon footprints to help us save our oceans and help us save our forests.

“Together, these global assets can be managed sustainably for the benefit of all humanity.”

The Prime Minister also highlighted Papua New Guinea’s position within the Coral Triangle, one of the richest marine biodiversity regions in the world, saying the country sits “in the heartbeat of the Coral Triangle.”

Mr Marape welcomed visiting leaders, including José Ramos-Horta, and said Papua New Guinea was continuing to grow as a destination for regional meetings and international events.

“As people come into our city, they take back a good story of our country.

“We welcome our visitors and encourage all residents of Port Moresby to help make our city safe, welcoming, and hospitable.”

Headlines
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• PNG future in doubt as Philemon condemns corruption in leadership
• Starlink goes live in PNG as SpaceX launches satellite internet service
• ​PNG Court Advances ICAC Case Against Malol
• PM Marape Hails Luai Visit as Boost for PNG Rugby League Dream

Concerns over Papua New Guinea’s future have been raised by former Lae MP Bart Philemon, who has criticised the country’s leadership for allowing corruption to persist.
Mr Philemon made the remarks in Madang during the Momase Regional Development Forum, where he said the nation’s progress is being undermined by attitudes within government ranks.
The forum, hosted by the Consultative, Implementation and Monitoring Council (CIMC), opened with a performance of the National Anthem by students from Holy Spirit Primary School, prompting an emotional response from the veteran leader.

He said the current direction of governance leaves little hope for the next generation unless urgent changes are made.
“Papua New Guinea can never be truly free, and I cannot see a future for the children of this beautiful country if our leaders in government do not change their attitudes,” he said.
Reflecting on the anthem, Mr Philemon said its message about freedom contrasts sharply with the reality facing the country today.
“I personally do not believe that Papua New Guinea can be free when there is no political integrity amongst leaders,” he said.
He urged participants at the forum to confront corruption as a national issue and work collectively towards restoring integrity in leadership.

Headlines
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• Starlink goes live in PNG as SpaceX launches satellite internet service
• ​PNG Court Advances ICAC Case Against Malol
• PM Marape Hails Luai Visit as Boost for PNG Rugby League Dream
• PNG Central Bank Warns Public Against Crypto and Fast-Money Schemes

The introduction of Starlink is expected to improve connectivity, particularly in rural and remote communities where access to reliable internet has remained limited due to the challenges of building traditional infrastructure.

NICTA said the satellite-based system allows users to connect directly through installed terminals, providing coverage in areas that previously had little or no service.

The authority welcomed the rollout, noting that it will complement existing network providers while contributing to broader efforts to strengthen digital inclusion and promote competition in the ICT sector.

Businesses and individuals have been advised that the service is now commercially available, subject to equipment requirements, pricing, and subscription plans offered by the company.

NICTA Chief Executive Officer Pólume Lume said the authority will continue to oversee the rollout to ensure it meets regulatory standards, stating, “NICTA will continue to monitor the rollout and operation of Starlink services to ensure compliance with licence conditions, consumer protection standards, and quality of service obligations.”

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• ​PNG Court Advances ICAC Case Against Malol
• PM Marape Hails Luai Visit as Boost for PNG Rugby League Dream
• PNG Central Bank Warns Public Against Crypto and Fast-Money Schemes
• PNGDF Suspends Media Statements on Recruitment Review

The commission alleges that roughly K1.7 million was issued to a contractor for sports-related supplies and services, including infrastructure development and social mapping activities in Southern Highlands Province, but claims the funds were not properly utilised.
During the period under investigation, Malol was employed by Project Masters Limited, which had been engaged by PNGSF to handle procurement and tender responsibilities.
Magistrate Albert Daniels pointed out that Malol had legal representation, although his lawyer did not attend the April 23 court sitting. Under the District Court Act, the magistrate exercised powers to commit the matter without a full presentation of the brief.
The case has been scheduled for mention on May 4, 2026, in the National Court, with bail conditions remaining in place until then, ICAC said.

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Papua New Guinea Prime Minister James Marape has described the visit of NRL star Jarome Luai to Port Moresby as a timely boost to the country’s ambition of joining the National Rugby League.
Mr Marape said the arrival of the high-profile five-eighth, accompanied by his family and management team, was a proud moment for Papua New Guinea and a sign of growing confidence in the nation’s rugby league future.
“To have a player of Jarome Luai’s calibre visit our country, experience our culture, meet our people, and see what Papua New Guinea has to offer is heartwarming for our nation,” he said.

He added that the Government and people of PNG were honoured to host one of the competition’s most recognised talents.
Luai rose to prominence with the Penrith Panthers, where he played a central role in the club’s premiership-winning era and established himself as one of the game’s most skilful and confident playmakers.
The Samoan international also made his mark globally, helping his side reach the final of the 2022 Rugby League World Cup, further strengthening his reputation as a leading Pacific athlete.
Now contracted to the Wests Tigers after a high-profile move in 2025, Luai remains one of the biggest names in the sport.
Reports have indicated that during his stay in Port Moresby, he met with officials linked to Papua New Guinea’s proposed NRL franchise, which is expected to enter the competition in 2028.
However, Mr Marape made it clear that there are no formal arrangements in place and emphasised the need to respect existing contractual obligations.
“At this stage, there is nothing formal or concrete. Jarome remains contracted to the Wests Tigers, and we fully respect his current obligations,” he said.
The Prime Minister also acknowledged Benji Marshall and the Wests Tigers organisation for allowing the player to visit PNG during the season.
Mr Marape said it was encouraging to see Luai attend local rugby league matches and witness first-hand the passion Papua New Guineans have for the game.
“Rugby league is more than a game in our country. It is a force that unites people from hundreds of languages, cultures, and provinces into one nation,” he said.
He said the planned PNG franchise would represent not only the country but also the wider Pacific, promoting shared values and opportunities for young people.
“That is why our new NRL team is so important. It represents national unity, opportunity for youth, and a proud future for Papua New Guinea in the region,” he said.

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The Bank of Papua New Guinea has issued a fresh warning across PNG, urging citizens to stay away from cryptocurrency dealings and so-called fast-money schemes that continue to trap unsuspecting investors.Governor Elizabeth Genia said the central bank does not recognise or regulate any entities offering digital asset investments or quick-profit opportunities, cautioning that many Papua New Guineans are being misled.

“BPNG does not license any Virtual Asset Service Providers (VASPs), cryptocurrency-based investment platforms, or fast-money schemes,” she said.She explained that such operations often lure people with unrealistic promises, including turning K30,000 into K270,000 within hours or advertising returns of up to 400 per cent.
“These entities are not authorised or supervised by the BPNG, meaning participants have no recourse if they lose money,” she said.
The governor further warned that fraudsters are increasingly using fake documents, forged signatures and even official-looking BPNG letterheads to create the impression of legitimacy.
“Fraudsters often use forged documents, forged signatures of the BPNG governor, and the bank’s official letterhead to claim they are transferring funds held in offshore accounts or from pre-independence holdings,” she said.
She added that victims are often asked to pay upfront fees before accessing the supposed funds.
Meanwhile, a recent complaint involves an alleged scam operator linked to the BidAsk or Tanglik Finance Investment Company, who reportedly collected millions of kina from more than 5,000 people.
Authorities, including Bank of South Pacific Financial Group Limited and police, identified the suspect as “Job Piner”, who was operating from Jup Centre in Port Moresby.
The suspect allegedly promised investors returns of up to 400 per cent per month.
One victim, Isaac Kipoi, said he invested over K9,000 and is still waiting to receive any payout.
Investigations also revealed that the account linked to the suspect currently holds only K26 and remains active.

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• PNGDF Suspends Media Statements on Recruitment Review
• ​PNG Backs First Large-Scale Biodiesel Project
• PNG Opposition Sounds Alarm Over Deepening Defence Crisis and Corruption
• PNG Defence Force Soldiers Maintain Demands After Murray Barracks Roadblock Removed

The Papua New Guinea Defence Force has moved to suspend all public commentary on its 2026 recruitment program while an independent investigation is underway.
In a statement, Commander Rear Admiral Philip Polewara said the Defence Force will refrain from further remarks until the inquiry ordered by Prime Minister and Defence Minister James Marape is completed.

Rear Admiral Polewara noted that while the media plays an important role in ensuring accountability, ongoing debate could undermine the integrity of the review. He confirmed that the Defence Force leadership, including himself, is cooperating fully with the external probe.
He emphasised that the Prime Minister’s call for an impartial assessment has the full backing of the PNGDF, and silence at this stage is necessary to allow investigators to carry out their work without disruption.
The Defence Force said it will only issue statements once the investigation concludes and official findings are made public.

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• PNG Opposition Sounds Alarm Over Deepening Defence Crisis and Corruption
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“This is a significant moment for Pomio and East New Britain,” he said.
“It reflects a shared vision for development that delivers real opportunities for our communities and ensures our district plays a meaningful role in the country’s economic future.”

The project is being coordinated by InvestPNG in partnership with developer Mutual Wide Corporation, with plans to integrate oil palm production in Pomio to supply raw materials for domestic fuel processing.

MWC chief executive officer Mal Michael said the investment demonstrated how large-scale projects could align with national development priorities while driving growth at the local level.

“This is exactly the type of project PNG needs to unlock long-term, sustainable growth,” he said.
“It brings together agriculture, energy, and industrial processing into a single value chain that is anchored domestically.”

The initiative is expected to reduce the country’s reliance on imported diesel, which has long exposed Papua New Guinea to fluctuating global prices and foreign exchange challenges.

By producing fuel locally, the project aims to strengthen supply reliability while building a more resilient energy system for the future.

Headlines
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• PNG Opposition Sounds Alarm Over Deepening Defence Crisis and Corruption
• PNG Defence Force Soldiers Maintain Demands After Murray Barracks Roadblock Removed
• ​PNG Airport Security on High Alert After Multiple Drug Busts at Jackson’s International Airport
• ​PNG Soldiers question dismissals as recruitment probe begins