Residents in several areas of Port Moresby have been warned to prepare for a series of court-ordered evictions scheduled to take place throughout 2026.The Acting Assistant Commissioner of Police for the National Capital District (NCD) and Central Provinces, Benjamin Turi, confirmed that his office had received notifications of upcoming eviction exercises. He said landowners and property owners will lead these evictions, with police providing assistance to ensure the operations proceed smoothly.“Police will enforce directives from the courts when the documents are genuine, and those seeking police assistance provide all legitimate legal papers. We are working closely with all agencies involved to ensure each eviction exercise is completed successfully”ACP Turi highlighted several locations set for eviction, including Hohola, Suksuk Tyres Service down to Pitstop, Mobil Service Station, parts of Garden Hills, and Six Mile near Saraga Market. The actions are pending court orders from the National Court, and residents in these areas have been advised to prepare to relocate.“Talai and Gorobe are next,” he added, noting these areas are affected by plans for a new road link connecting Burns Peak to Koki Market—a project for which NCD Governor Powes Parkop held a groundbreaking ceremony last year.The police have already made progress with the Two-Mile Hill eviction and are preparing for the next exercise at the Four Mile Works compound. ACP Turi said awareness sessions for residents were conducted this morning to ensure they are informed about the process.He also cautioned that other illegal settlements along drains and in other locations would be demolished once the National Capital District Commission (NCDC) gives approval. “The NCDC is the authority,” he emphasized.These eviction exercises are part of broader urban management and development plans in Port Moresby, aimed at clearing unauthorized settlements and enabling infrastructure projects. Residents are urged to comply with court orders to avoid legal and police action.ACP Turi concluded by reminding the public “This message is part of police awareness for those residing in the mentioned locations. Everyone should be prepared for the evictions to take place as scheduled.”

The States of Guernsey will continue to monitor cases of Nipah virus reported in India, it has said. Nipah can spread from animals to humans and is associated with a high mortality rate as there is no vaccine for it. Guernsey's government said the latest advice was that the risk to tourists visiting affected areas remained very low, provided standard precautions were followed.Travellers who had concerns while abroad, or after returning home, should seek advice from a healthcare professional, the States added. India has confirmed two laboratory‑verified Nipah virus cases since December, both involving healthcare workers in West Bengal, with 196 contacts traced and all testing, India's health ministry says. Authorities in Thailand and Nepal have started testing at airports that receive flights from West Bengal, and at other land border points with India. The World Health Organization has described Nipah as one of its top 10 priority diseases because of its potential to trigger an epidemic. In a recent blog post, the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) confirmed it had received funding in 2022 to created the first UK model for testing Nipah infections and had been studying the virus for several years.Nipah and its symptomsSource: MSN

Bakubari Village residents who challenged a group of violent youths were met with retaliation, as police confirm a criminal gang is now being hunted following attacks in Popondetta, Oro Province.The Commissioner of Police, David Manning, confirmed on Sunday that police are pursuing those responsible for a serious attack at Bakubari Village, describing the violence as part of a series of reprisals against communities that resisted criminal activity. “A series of incidents occurred after local people bravely stood up to these criminals and then faced reprisals,” Commissioner Manning said. The attacks, which occurred in recent days, have unsettled communities in Popondetta and prompted a coordinated police response. While full details of the Bakubari incident are still being verified by officers on the ground, police say the violence extended beyond a single location and posed a direct threat to public safety. “What these criminals did in Bakubari, and other areas in Popondetta, cannot go unanswered and the public is expecting swift action,” the Police Commissioner said. Police have identified the group involved as a self-proclaimed gang calling itself the “Don’t Care Gang”, which Commissioner Manning said has now become a priority target for law enforcement. “This self-proclaimed ‘Don’t Care Gang’ is a priority target for law enforcement personnel and we will dismantle that criminal gang methodically, surgically and to the fullest extent of the law. Their continuing disregard for the laws of our nation and assaults on the peace of our people will end” he said. According to police, additional resources are being deployed to support operations in Oro Province, including targeted policing deployments and extra funding for provincial police commands. Commissioner Manning confirmed police will use a broad range of legal powers to address the threat posed by the group. “Police are employing a range of powers available to deal with the group, including powers under the Criminal Code Act and the Counter-Terrorism Act,” he said. Drawing on previous operations against organized criminal groups, Commissioner Manning said police are actively tracking those involved and warned that arrests are imminent. “We will deal with them in the same way that we have ended other criminal groups such as the Tommy Baker gang,” he said. “They are being tracked, they will be cornered, and they will have the option to surrender.” He also issued a warning to anyone assisting or sheltering members of the group. “I also warn any associate of this group that they too will face justice if they hide fugitives,” he said. While condemning the violence, the Police Commissioner acknowledged the broader social concern of youth involvement in crime, describing it as “sad” but unacceptable. “It is very sad to see young people turn to crime and violence, but police have our job to do and that is to put an end to the wanton violence they are imposing on our people,” he said. Commissioner Manning called on community leaders and residents to support police efforts by providing information that could assist investigations. “I call on community leaders to be proactive and inform police of any information they might have on the group or individual criminals,” he said. Police say investigations into the Bakubari Village attack and related incidents are continuing, with officers in Popondetta still confirming details. Authorities have indicated further updates will be released as information is verified. For affected communities, the message from police is that operations will continue until those responsible are located and brought before the courts, as residents wait for calm to return following days of fear and uncertainty.  

The Port Moresby Racquets Club has confirmed that its 2026 Term 1 Junior Squash Development program is now underway, following the release of an information flyer on the club’s official Facebook page.According to information shared on the Port Moresby Racquets Club page, the program commenced in the week of Saturday, January 31, 2026, and will run until the week ending Saturday, March 28, 2026. Training sessions are being conducted at the club’s courts in Boroko. It includes weekly squad training, beginner sessions, and strength and conditioning activities aimed at supporting junior squash development. K10 squad training is held on Tuesdays, while Thursdays are dedicated to strength and conditioning for squash and tennis juniors aged 10 and above, followed by sessions in the squash-court area. Saturday sessions cater for both beginner and intermediate players at the cost of K10. The club noted that the K10 program plays an important role in supporting its broader Junior Development Program.

The Mineral Resources Authority (MRA) has consistently maintained a clear position against illegal gold trading activities in Papua New Guinea.Following concerns raised at national level of illegal gold trading activities across PNG, the State, through the MRA, has mobilized a coordinated multi-agency investigation to address the matter and demonstrate commitment to protecting the integrity of the country’s mining sector. The MRA, together with key government agencies including the Department of Commerce and Industry (DCI), Investment Promotion Authority (IPA), Internal Revenue Commission (IRC), Customs Service, Department of Labour and Industrial Relations (DLIR), Conservation and Environment Protection Authority (CEPA), conducted an inspection visit to the Simberi Mine site. The exercise was carried out with the support of law enforcement officers and focused on Mining Lease area (ML136). The joint inspection was initiated in response to growing allegations that illegal gold buyers may be operating on the island, allegedly disguising their activities through Chinese-owned retail outlets. In addition to investigating the specific illegal practice, the inspection allowed the state agencies to identify other non-compliance matters, including breaches of IPA and IRC operational conditions, immigration and visa requirements of the foreign nationals operating retail outlets within the lease area. The state-led visit shows the government’s commitment to safeguarding the integrity of the mining sector and ensuring compliance with PNG’s mining, taxation, labour, environmental, and commercial laws. Representatives from the visiting agencies confirmed that each institution will undertake assessments within its respective mandate to determine further charges of the outcomes from this investigation. The inspection was conducted independently by the state agencies, reinforcing that the investigation and any subsequent actions remain solely within government authority and processes. The company continues to respect due processes, uphold its corporate values, and engage responsibly with local communities while supporting lawful enforcement efforts led by the State.                     

The Government's newly approved K11 billion education reform programme aims to transform the country's education sector, with a strong focus on infrastructure, teacher welfare, and addressing critical shortages in the teaching workforce.Prime Minister James Marape stated that a significant portion of the funding will be directed towards building modern classrooms for both primary and secondary schools, expanding learning spaces to accommodate rising enrolment numbers, and constructing teachers' houses, particularly in rural and remote areas. He emphasized the importance of improving teacher working conditions, professional training, and overall welfare to enhance education standards across the nation. “I have said clearly that teachers must be among the highest-paid public servants in our country.” Additionally, the government will focus on addressing teacher shortages by recruiting new graduates, especially those from the University of Papua New Guinea and PNG University of Technology. Specialists in fields like mathematics, science, engineering, agriculture, commerce, tourism, and technical and vocational education and training (TVET) will be engaged under newly approved Public Service Commission contract arrangements, allowing for quicker deployment to schools facing staffing shortages. Provincial governments and district administrations are being urged to assist with providing teacher accommodation, particularly in fast-growing or remote communities.

The global prices for gold, silver and copper have jumped to historical record high, prompting the good prime minister to direct the government’s financial bodies to enable Papua New Guinea (PNG) to tap into this right away.Prime Minister James Marape has directed the Treasury Department and the Internal Revenue Commission (IRC) to undertake a comprehensive review of all mining agreements in Papua New Guinea, following record global increases in gold, silver and copper prices. “With global gold, silver and copper prices reaching historic highs, mining operations in Papua New Guinea — whether large-scale or alluvial — are now generating extraordinary profits,” Prime Minister Marape said. “Most production costs remain relatively fixed, apart from inflation. When commodity prices rise sharply, the country must also benefit through appropriate tax returns and dividends.” Prime Minister Marape confirmed that Treasury and the IRC have been instructed to: • Compile individual files on every operating mine, including: • State-owned mining entities such as Ok Tedi Mining Limited. • Joint-venture operations including Porgera. • Medium and small-scale mining license holders. • Conduct accuracy and compliance testing on all production and revenue declarations. • Undertake joint reviews of project agreements with mining operators. • Ensure transparency in royalty, tax, dividend and equity returns to the State. “I have asked Treasury and the IRC to conduct accurate testing on all company declarations and to work collaboratively with operators to ensure compliance,” the Prime Minister said. “Many of these companies have operated in Papua New Guinea for decades and are corporate citizens of our country. Goodwill, honesty and fairness are expected — especially when global commodity prices deliver windfall profits.”

The National Capital District Provincial Health Authority (NCDPHA) recently held its final Internal Consultative Meeting, bringing together Directors, Deputy Directors, Hospital Managers, District Medical Officers, Program Coordinators, and Line Managers from across the Provincial Health Authority.NCDPHA Chief Executive Officer, Dr. Robin Oge, indorsed the importance of inclusivity and teamwork in planning. “This Strategic Development Plan is a roadmap for transforming health services in the National Capital District.” “By engaging our leaders and managers in this final consultative meeting, we ensure that the voices of those at the frontline of health delivery are heard and reflected.” “Together, we are building a stronger, more responsive health system for our people.” Once the The Strategic Development Plan is finalized, it’ll serve as a guiding framework for enhancing infrastructure, service delivery, and overall health outcomes for NCD residents.

The National Government has confirmed its commitment to the 1-6-6 education structure, with national expansion expected to begin from 2027.Prime Minister James Marape said the policy, currently being tested in six provinces, ensures all students progress from Grade 8 to Grade 9 without being excluded due to limited spacing. “I have directed provinces not to refuse students.” “Take stock of your enrolments, especially at Grade 9 level, and the National Government will work with you to provide teachers, classrooms and curriculum support.” Under the 1-6-6 model, the Government aims to eliminate major drop-out points and ensure all children complete their education through to Grade 12. “For too long our education system has created drop-out points at Grade 6, Grade 8, Grade 10 and Grade 12.” The rollout will be supported by increased education budgets through to 2035 to fund additional classrooms, teachers and learning resources. The Government’s vision is to ensure no child is left behind, with education pathways that allow every student to advance uninterruptedly from early childhood through to Grade 12.  “Every child enters early childhood education and leaves the system at Grade 12 with the right mindset, skills, discipline and character.”

The Australian Government announced a new visa package to deepen people-to-people connections between Australia and Papua New Guinea and to support the historic entry of the PNG Chiefs into the National Rugby League (NRL) in 2028.This package will make it easier for Papua New Guinean nationals associated with the PNG Chiefs, including players, coaches, officials, media representatives, and fans, to travel to Australia, reinforcing both countries shared commitment to cultural and sporting ties. Under the new low-cost arrangements, for travel to Australia related to the PNG Chiefs, the visa application charges (VACs) will be reduced to approximately PGK 75 (AUD 25) per applicant, compared to current charges of up to PGK 1,300 (AUD 430). For PNG Chiefs’ fans, this means eligibility to apply for a PGK 75 visitor visa, valid for up to 12 months, allowing multiple short stays to attend games throughout the NRL season. The Australian Government will launch a new one stop shop website dedicated to providing information and resources for PNG Chiefs players, staff, officials, fans and media to apply for visas. Australia will also establish specialist visa processing teams to deliver expedient visa decisions when the PNG Chiefs visa arrangements commence in 2028. The new package builds on mobility initiatives already in place, including the Pacific Engagement Visa (PEV), which provides permanent residence opportunities for PNG nationals, and the Pacific Australia Labour Mobility (PALM) scheme, which offers pathways for PNG workers to take up jobs in Australia. This visa package will also provide a significant boost to the Australian economy through increased tourism and creating new opportunities for local businesses. The PNG Minister for Foreign Affairs Justin Tkatchenko, thanked the Australian Government for working with Papua New Guinea and its Government on this. “It is a win-win situation, a win for Australia, a win for Papua New Guinea, a win for the Chiefs in sports in PNG and Australia.” “And it brings a wonderful relationship even closer together than ever before.” Meanwhile, Minister for Higher Education, Research, Science and Technology and Sports, Kinoka Feo, stated that this is a massive announcement and is certain that people around the world, the country, and more importantly, the rural folks, will be excited when they hear this and the affordability of the visa as well. “You know, Papua New Guineans love Rugby League, and it is the one common denominator, as far as our Prime Minister says, that unites this country.” “I am sure you will see crowds and I know that all Papua New Guineans will go in numbers to support our team come game day.” On the other hand, Australian Minister for Home Affairs Tony Burke, shared similar sentiments stating that the friendship between Australia and Papua New Guinea is driven by shared passion for sport, deepening of people-to-people links and building a stronger, more connected region. “The PNG Chiefs joining the NRL is more than a sporting milestone, it is a symbol of friendship and partnership.” “I want to thank Prime Minister James Marape for his vision, leadership, and unwavering commitment in making this historic initiative a reality.” “With the PNG Chiefs running onto the field in 2028, we are ensuring a level playing field, tackling the same issues, and striving for success, side by side and step by step.”

Acting Assistant Commissioner of Police Benjamin Turi has issued a firm advisory for residents of the Four Mile works compound to vacate the premises following a condemnation notice from the National Capital District Health Authority.As the sole authority for police evictions within the NCD and Central Province command, ACP Turi confirmed that awareness programs will begin next week to prepare the community for the transition. The decision to clear the Four Mile works compound stems from both structural and safety concerns. ACP Turi noted that the buildings have been officially condemned and have become hubs for illegal activity. “Since the buildings were condemned and there are many reports of people committing criminal offenses residing there, police will move in to carry out evictions as per directives from the Works Department.” Furthermore, the directive extends to the management of livestock within the city. “Those who are looking after animals, like pigs, inside that yard are advised to remove them, or the NCDC enforcement team will move in and have them removed,” he warned. The eviction mandate is not limited to Four Mile. ACP Turi identified Eight Mile as the next priority area, targeting those squatting on land without proper titles. He highlighted the administrative strain caused by unplanned urban migration, stating, “When we allow people to be squatters in such areas, they move to the city without planning where to live.” “When they arrive in the city, they look for free land to reside on and engage in illegal activities like vending in undesignated areas, loitering, and many other unlawful actions that create more work for the police, who are supposed to concentrate on investigating other crimes.” To address this, the police are collaborating with the NCDC and various government departments to map out illegal settlements. “We will start evictions and take stock of people who are moving from one place to another,” Turi added, emphasizing a new focus on monitoring population movement to curb crime. Meanwhile, Metropolitan Superintendent Warrick Simatab, and Central Provincial Police Commander Chief Inspector Joseph Salle, are currently coordinating with station commanders to identify and profile residents in these informal locations. This effort aims to isolate and deal with criminal elements effectively. ACP Turi concluded by expressing gratitude to the community for their role in urban safety. “This is the way forward to make our city clean and safe for everyone residing here and those coming in to do business in our city,” he said, acknowledging the vital updates provided by the public regarding local criminal activities.

The New York Times has lost its blue tick on Twitter after it said it would not pay to remain verified. Twitter has started removing verification badges from accounts which already had a blue tick, after announcing they would be part of a paid subscription from 1 April. The New York Times, along with several other organisations and celebrities, said they would not pay for the tick. It prompted Elon Musk to launch a volley of insults at the newspaper. "The real tragedy of @NYTimes is that their propaganda isn't even interesting", Mr Musk, who owns Twitter, wrote on the platform. "Also, their feed is the Twitter equivalent of diarrhea. It's unreadable," he added. There has been no official comment from Twitter and the New York Times has not responded to Mr Musk's comments. Under Twitter's new rules, blue ticks which once showed official, verified accounts, will start to be removed from accounts which do not pay for it. Organisations seeking verification badges instead have to pay a monthly fee of $1,000 (£810) to receive a gold verification tick, while individual accounts must pay $8 (£6.40) a month for a blue one. The subscription service will generate revenue for Twitter, however concerns have been raised that without the verification process, it will be difficult to tell genuine accounts from impersonators. As well as not paying the subscription fee, the New York Times said it would also not pay for the verification of its journalists' Twitter accounts, apart from in "rare instances where this status would be essential for reporting purposes", a spokesperson said. Following the announcement, the newspaper, which has almost 55 million Twitter followers, lost its verification badge. But it is unclear whether all organisations must sign up to the subscription service in order to remain verified. Ten thousand of the most-followed organisations on Twitter will be exempt from the rules, the New York Times reports, citing an internal Twitter document. Since December, Twitter has introduced three different coloured verification badges: gold ticks are used for business organisations, grey ticks are for government-affiliated accounts or multilateral organisations, and blue ticks are used for individual accounts. Many news organisations including CNN, the Los Angeles Times and the Washington Post - companies which also said they will not pay for Twitter verification - now have gold ticks. Other New York Times accounts, such as New York Times Arts and New York Times Travel, also have the gold badge. The removal of the blue ticks seems to be happening gradually. This could be because it is largely a manual process, according to The Washington Post, citing former employees of the company. Celebrities like American basketball great LeBron James, who said he would not be paying for Twitter verification, still has a blue tick. The same is true of US rapper Ice-T, who has also criticised the new fee-paying system. Source: BBC