Papua New Guinea's Accident Investigation Commission (AIC) has released its preliminary report on the fatal crash of a North Coast Aviation aircraft in Morobe on December 22. The report reveals that the Britten-Norman BN-2 Islander aircraft struck a forest canopy at around 8,000 feet, clipping a tree with its right wing before crashing to the ground.
AIC Chief Commissioner Maryanne Wal explained that the collision damage indicated the aircraft impacted the terrain at a speed typically associated with engine-powered flight. The force of the impact sparked a fire, which ignited the fuel onboard, resulting in severe damage and destruction of the aircraft. Three suspects involved in a break-and-enter incident at Glory Estate, Eight Mile, Port Moresby, have been apprehended by police, while seven remain on the run.
According to police, the incident occurred during the night when ten armed men, wielding homemade guns and other weapons, broke into an apartment at Glory Estate. The group reportedly stole three mobile phones, a laptop, and K30,000 in cash. A Romanian national, who was detained in Port Moresby, PNG on January 3 in connection with a card cloning syndicate, has been released after complainants failed to provide official reports to police. The suspect was held by authorities for several days, but due to the absence of formal complaints, he could not be detained further.
Detective Superintendent Joel Simatab, Director for Crimes, explained that while many victims had reported missing funds to their banks, none of these reports were officially filed with the police, preventing further action. Without formal documentation, authorities were legally unable to continue holding the suspect. BSP Financial Group Limited has refunded K8 million to customers who fell victim to a recent card cloning scam. This announcement was made by Detective Superintendent Joel Simatab, Director for Crimes, after a meeting with BSP and Kina Bank earlier this week.
The meeting prompted the establishment of an Investigation Task Force to address the escalating card cloning incidents reported in Port Moresby and other parts of the country. The move follows widespread public complaints about unauthorized withdrawals from bank accounts. Papua New Guinea’s Minister for State Enterprises, William Duma, has expressed the nation's gratitude to the Australian Government for its financial contribution of USD 67,171,408.43 (approximately PGK 260 million) to upgrade the Kimbe wharf.
Speaking on the significance of the assistance, Mr. Duma stated that the country stands to benefit greatly from this partnership. He expressed appreciation for Australia’s unwavering support, noting that other State-Owned Enterprises besides PNG Ports have also reaped the benefits of Australia’s generosity. Prime Minister James Marape has commended the University of Goroka (UOG) leadership for their remarkable efforts in expanding student enrolment and achieving a record-breaking graduation turnout, despite significant setbacks, including the 2022 earthquake that severely damaged university infrastructure.
Speaking at the 28th Graduation Ceremony on Tuesday, January 14, 2025, Prime Minister Marape applauded the resilience and dedication of UOG’s Vice-Chancellor and Chancellor in adhering to government directives to increase enrolment. He noted that since his government took office in 2019, UOG has more than doubled its graduating class, with over 1,009 students receiving their qualifications this week — the largest in the university's history Acting Madang Provincial Police Commander (PPC), Superintendent Robert Baim, has urged action against the rising threat of bank card cloning and called for enhanced border security measures. The call comes amid growing concerns over digital crimes that threaten the financial security of Papua New Guineans.
Superintendent Baim highlighted the seriousness of bank card cloning, describing it as a major risk to citizens' finances and safety. “This criminal act undermines the trust and security people rely on, making it imperative that we work together to combat this growing menace,” he said. The PPC encouraged community members to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities, emphasizing their role in addressing this issue. “Your proactive engagement is vital in our efforts to eradicate this criminal practice and safeguard our community,” he added. The newly opened Metoreia Urban Health Centre in Port Moresby marked a historic milestone early this morning with the delivery of its first baby. The event highlights a significant step forward for healthcare services in the National Capital District.
At 1:35 a.m., 21-year-old Anthonia Sioa from Hanuabada Village gave birth to a healthy baby boy, Steven Sioa, weighing 3.4 kg. Ms. Sioa had been referred to the health centre in December 2024 following clinical checks at the NCD Provincial Health Authority Lawes Road Clinic. She was admitted to the maternity ward on January 13th. Larry Andagali, the managing director of Trans Wonderland Limited (TWL), has raised serious concerns over escalating lawlessness on the Highlands Highway, warning that the company may soon have to lay off workers if the situation persists.
Andagali described the conditions as a nightmare for trucking companies, citing frequent hold-ups that make operations increasingly difficult. “If no action is taken this week, we will begin laying off staff,” he stated. The PNG Government has delayed the implementation of the Niucare Healthcare Scheme for public servants, according to Personnel Management Secretary Taies Sansan. The policy, initially scheduled to roll out in January 2024, will now be referred back to the National Executive Council (NEC) for reassessment. Sansan made the announcement during a media conference yesterday at the Central Government House in Port Moresby, clarifying that the delay follows public concerns raised about the policy. “The public servants healthcare policy will not be implemented next month as issued earlier in our circular of Dec 12,” she explained. |
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