The PNG Lewas claimed a thrilling one-run victory over New South Wales Country Women in the opening round, before falling by four wickets to Victoria Country Women in Round Two of the Toyota Australian Country Cricket Championships (TACCC) on Saturday January 3rd at Angaston Oval.ROUND ONE: PNG LEWAS VS NSW COUNTRY WOMEN Batting first, NSW Country Women scored 98 runs while losing nine wickets in their 20 overs. In reply, the PNG Lewas chased down the target, posting 99 runs while losing nine wickets in 19.3 overs. With three balls remaining and one wicket in hand, the Lewas edged out NSW to secure a dramatic opening-round victory. Key contributors for the Lewas included batswoman Hollan Doriga, who scored 27 runs off 17 balls, and all-rounder Henao Thomas, who delivered an impressive bowling performance, taking two wickets from four overs while conceding just 21 runs. ROUND TWO: PNG LEWAS VS VICTORIA COUNTRY WOMEN Returning to the field against Victoria Country Women in Round Two at Angaston Oval on Saturday afternoon, the PNG Lewas were unable to maintain their winning momentum, falling short by four wickets. Batting first, the Lewas posted 103 runs in 20 overs, with captain Brenda Tau leading the team with 40 runs off 40 balls, including six boundaries. Konio Oala bounced back from a duck in Round One to contribute 21 runs. In reply, Victoria Country Women chased down the target with 107 runs in 19.4 overs, securing a four-wicket victory with two balls remaining. Pauke Siaka and Henao Thomas led the Lewas bowling attack, taking two and one wickets respectively, supported by disciplined bowling from the rest of the unit. Despite the loss, the Lewas showed resilience and determination, with several players delivering promising performances ahead of the remaining rounds of the 2025/26 Summer tournament.

The National St John Ambulance (NStJA) Service is planning a major expansion in 2026 by establishing its first operation in the Highlands region in the Unggai-Bena District of the Eastern Highlands province. The organization already operates in Port Moresby, Central Province, Morobe (Lae), and Kokopo. Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Mr. Tane Kai said the move represents a significant milestone for the service.“We’ll be expanding into Unggai-Bena, which I’m really excited about. It’s the first time we’re going into the Highlands. We’ll be expanding our programs, conducting more training, and delivering first aid education in schools,” he said. Mr. Kai said education and professional growth for ambulance officers remains a top priority. NStJA will focus on upskilling current officers while recruiting trainee dispatchers and ambulance officers, including internal staff and reservists. “We have a big education program planned. We’ll be upskilling many of our ambulance officers, providing more opportunities for growth within National St John, and expanding our recruitment campaign for both training ambulance officers and trainee dispatchers,” he explained. The organization also plans technological upgrades, including a connected electronic patient record system for all ambulances. The system aims to link directly to hospitals to improve patient care and efficiency. “Connectivity is always a challenge, but getting all ambulances and crews using electronic patient records is essential. In the best-case scenario, these records would link to hospitals as well. Full implementation may take a few years, but it will help us capture more data, improve population health tracking, and enhance our services nationwide,” he noted. Mr. Kai addressed safety concerns for ambulance officers, emphasizing the public’s role in protecting emergency teams. “It’s up to every Papua New Guinean to decide whether they want a qualified ambulance service. If you want emergency services, please respect these teams and call out any bad behavior. We want our officers to return safely to their families at the end of every shift,” he said. He praised the dedication of ambulance officers across the country. “These officers work long shifts, study hard, and know their communities inside out. They drop everything, day or night, to help someone in need. That dedication is inspiring and motivates me to support them to deliver the best service possible.” Mr. Kai concluded by wishing all Papua New Guineans a happy New Year.

Acting Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP) for NCD and Central, Benjamin Turi, has credited strong leadership for both NCD and Central Province Governors and the cooperation between both PPC with support units and community watch volunteers for a largely peaceful festive season in both provinces.Commander Turi said the calm outcome during Christmas and New Year celebrations was not accidental, but the result of coordinated efforts by provincial leaders, police commanders, and the public. He said political leadership and senior police oversight played a key role in setting expectations for peaceful celebrations across the National Capital District and Central Province. "I want to thank the two Governors, the elected leaders, the two police bosses for NCD and Central Provinces, PPC Salle and Met. Supt. Simatab, the police station commanders, Police Section Heads, each individual police officer from the command, support units, our Operational Units, Dog Unit, Mobile Squads, Water Police, the community watch volunteers, village leaders, parents, the media and everyone who said a word to encourage individuals to celebrate peacefully," Commander Turi said. He said the festive period, particularly Christmas, was generally quiet in both provinces. Commander Turi confirmed that two deaths were reported in the Sabama area of NCD during the Christmas period. Apart from these incidents, he said there were no major cases of widespread violence. He said Central Province recorded a quiet Christmas, with police reporting no serious disturbances. Commander Turi said New Year celebrations also passed without major incidents, although police did respond to a number of alcohol-related cases. He said drunken individuals were involved in fights among themselves, resulting in injuries and damage to property. These cases, he said, are currently under police investigation. He explained that alcohol continues to be the main cause of public disorder during festive seasons, despite ongoing police efforts to control its misuse. He said police had taken enforcement action, but some members of the public chose to ignore the law. Commander Turi said community cooperation was critical in preventing situations from escalating, particularly in high-risk areas. He said police observations showed that most disturbances occurred in settlements and suburban areas, where community watch volunteers and local leaders worked closely with police officers. He also explained that proactive policing measures helped reduce incidents across the command. Commander Turi said police shut down illegal liquor outlets, arrested individuals producing homebrew, and accepted voluntary surrender of homebrew from members of the public. He said these actions demonstrated the value of police working in partnership with communities. "I saw teamwork displayed in this festive season. We are a small command; if we share and communicate with each other, we will not cause harm to others but encourage everyone to respect each other… The real meaning of police working in partnership with the communities was displayed. I thank you all for that," Commander Turi said. Police say they will continue community-based policing and alcohol-control operations in 2026 to maintain public safety in both provinces.

Unlike a normal emergency call made through 111, the National St John Ambulance Service (NSTJA) responded to a wave for help while attending another incident.Early this morning, ambulance officers were responding to a minor altercation involving intoxicated youths in the Downtown area.At around 2:35am, while returning from the scene, officers were flagged down by a man standing in the middle of the road near the Downtown Waterfront, close to the HMPNGS BASILISK PNG Defence Force Landing Craft Base.The man was identified as Simon Tavio, who told officers that his mother was seriously ill and urgently needed medical attention. Ambulance officers found a woman lying on the grass nearby.The patient was immediately assisted and transported to the Seven Mile Clinic. However, the clinic was closed, so she was rushed to the Port Moresby General Hospital Emergency Department via Three- Mile.Mr. Tavio later identified the patient as his mother, Nancy Nareke, aged 45, a nurse from Kainantu General Hospital in Eastern Highlands Province.According to her son, Ms. Nareke had been experiencing pain and bleeding for about six months, which she managed while undergoing treatment in Kainantu. She later travelled to Port Moresby in early December 2025 for church activities.Her condition worsened approximately 12 hours earlier while attending a Seventh Day Adventist camp in Bautama, Central Province, prompting the family to seek urgent medical help by taxi.National St John Ambulance officer Daniel Afuti confirmed that hospital staff have since diagnosed Ms. Nareke with cervical cancer and a cervical ulcer, and that she had been receiving ongoing treatment in Kainantu.

The National St John Ambulance Service has temporarily limited its ambulance services in Lae city following security concerns overnight.The decision was made after reports of attempted attacks in some settlement areas and an assessment of the safety risks facing ambulance crews.St John Ambulance says, for now, ambulances will only respond to life-threatening and high-risk emergencies within main Lae town areas and along major roads. This is to protect both patients and ambulance staff.The ambulance call centre remains open and will continue to provide first-aid advice over the phone. In cases where an ambulance cannot be safely sent, callers may be advised to find safe alternative transport to nearby health facilities.St John Ambulance has asked the public for understanding and support, urging people to celebrate responsibly, avoid violence, and help ensure emergency services can operate safely.The situation is being closely monitored, and further updates will be provided when available.

Port Moresby city entered 2026 with less violence than previous years, a shift from the usual levels of disorder seen during past New Year periods.For the first 45 minutes after midnight, the city remained relatively calm, with no major incidents reported despite ongoing noise from celebrations in different parts of the city. However, that changed shortly after when emergency services received a fire alert call.The fire was reported near a fence at the roadside market at 3-mile Foodland next to the PNG Motors Dealership, raising concerns that nearby cars and buildings could be affected. The fire crews responded immediately and contained the blaze before it could spread further.While some materials near the fence were burnt, the fire did not spread to nearby buildings or vehicles.Emergency responders said the quick response prevented what could have become a serious incident in the early hours of New Year's Day.Police and fire units remain on alert as celebrations continue, noting that while the start to the year was noisy, it was relatively peaceful.

Police at Five Mile in Port Moresby city have stepped up enforcement against loitering around the National Housing Corporation (NHC) flats as part of ongoing efforts to protect residents during the festive season.The move followed reports of people loitering unlawfully around occupied NHC houses, prompting an immediate response from police units. Nine individuals, four women and five men were arrested and later charged under the Summary Offences Act. National Capital District Metropolitan Superintendent Warrick Simatab confirmed the arrests, saying the suspects were charged for loitering, unlawfully being on premises, and playing an unlawful game. “These houses are occupied by families,” Met. Supt. Simatab said. “People have a right to peace in their homes. Loitering around residential areas creates fear, noise, and disorder, and police will act when complaints are made.” He said police patrols have been increased across the city during the festive period, with officers responding directly to reports from residents and Community Watch volunteers. “Loitering may seem minor, but when alcohol is involved, it quickly turns into noise pollution, public disturbances, and fights,” he said. “That is why we are enforcing the law early, before situations escalate.” Met. Supt. Simatab praised police officers for their visibility and quick response, noting that alcohol-related offences continue to rise during holiday celebrations. “We want people to enjoy the season, but celebrations must be responsible,” he said. “Avoid loitering, respect others, and cooperate with police when approached.” Police units will remain on patrol throughout New Year’s Eve, with a strong focus on preventing loitering and public disturbances in residential areas. Community Watch volunteers were also acknowledged for assisting police and helping maintain order within their communities. As the city prepares to welcome the New Year, police say stopping loitering early is one of the key steps to ensuring a safe and peaceful celebration for everyone.

Media Council Papua New Guinea (MCPNG) President Mr. Neville Choi says journalists are not above the law and must uphold the same legal standards as any citizen. His statement follows the arrest of a journalist caught drinking in public on Sunday 28th December in Port Moresby city, confirmed by National Capital District Metropolitan Superintendent Warrick Simatab.Police reports stated the journalist was at Five Mile, Kanage Street, around 2:30PM, consuming alcohol on the roadside with a friend. The journalist initially resisted arrest, but officers used reasonable force to detain him and transport him to the police station.Once sober, the journalist was formally charged and taken to Boroko Police Station, where he had the opportunity to post bail.While emphasizing the critical public role journalists play, Mr. Choi stressed that accountability and personal responsibility remain central to the profession. He noted that the Media Council respects the rule of law and believes journalists should maintain high ethical standards, both in their work and personal conduct, given the public trust and scrutiny inherent in the role. “Journalists are no different from ordinary citizens. Laws are laws. If you break the law and you are caught, you must face the law. As journalists, we report on accountability, so we must also be accountable ourselves.” Mr. Choi explained that the Council’s Code of Ethics guides professional conduct, but public expectations extend beyond the newsroom. Because of their visibility and influence, journalists are often held to a higher standard. He added that many journalists contribute positively to their communities outside work, strengthening public trust and respect for the profession.

The Community Watch program in Hisiu Village, Kairuku Local Level Government area of Central Province, is already producing positive outcomes, with villagers voluntarily surrendering homebrew-producing equipment following sustained awareness and community engagement.The progress follows an awareness visit on 17 December by senior police officials, led by NCD and Central Provinces Commander and Acting Assistant Commissioner of Police Benjamin Turi, alongside Central Provincial Police Commander Chief Inspector Joseph Salle. During the visit, police met with village leaders to discuss law and order concerns and formally introduce the Community Watch initiative. The program empowers village leaders and volunteers to work closely with police to address crime at the community level. Following the launch, leaders and Community Watch members conducted ongoing awareness sessions throughout Hisiu Village, targeting the harmful effects of homebrew production and consumption. Chief Inspector Salle confirmed that families of individuals known to be producing homebrew were advised to surrender their brewing equipment or face possible legal action. After repeated awareness efforts, many villagers changed their behavior, leading to the voluntary handover of homebrew-producing implements to community leaders. He described the response as encouraging, noting that homebrew remains one of the most commonly consumed alcoholic substances among youths and is often linked to antisocial behavior and serious crimes. “I am pleased with the results so far,” Chief Inspector Salle said. “Homebrew consumption often leads to youth related problems that can escalate into serious crimes. Seeing the community respond positively shows that awareness and cooperation work.” He added that Central Province has remained relatively calm during the festive season and expressed hope for a peaceful New Year. “It is up to each individual to behave responsibly so that we can welcome the New Year safely,” he said. “I also want to thank police officers in Central Province for their tireless efforts during the Christmas period. Crimes committed during this time have been recorded and will be investigated.” Chief Inspector Salle also confirmed that police along the Maggi Highway continue to monitor areas affected by the collapse of Imila Bridge within the Kupiano Police Division area of operation. Police say the success of the Community Watch program in Hisiu Village demonstrates the importance of strong community leadership and cooperation in maintaining law and order, particularly during the festive season.                           

The abuse of alcohol continues to fuel the violence and disturbances in the communities, a pressing matter that police in Port Moresby city aims to reduce this festive season. According to the National Capital District (NCD) Metropolitan Superintendent Warrick Simatab, Port Moresby enjoyed a relatively calm Christmas period under the ‘Operation Iron Star’, but there have been several disturbing reports of alcohol related incidences that has prompted the police high command to issue further warnings to retailers and those that consumer alcohol. Met. Supt. Simatab, who released the operational update covering December 18th to December 28th, described Christmas as ‘stable’ while announcing a tougher enforcement phase heading into the New Year. According to police data, alcohol was the common factor in all recorded cases of domestic violence, unlawful assaults, public disorder and loss of life during the period. Two homicides and multiple serious assaults were directly linked to alcohol-fueled incidents, alongside hundreds of summary offences including drunk and disorderly behaviour, domestic violence, noise pollution and public brawls. Traffic enforcement also intensified, with checkpoints across the city resulting in hundreds of infringement notices and multiple arrests related to dangerous driving and alcohol impairment. Police say the figures confirm a long-standing pattern that becomes most visible during festive seasons when celebrations, alcohol abuse and public movement come together. Met. Supt. Simatab described alcohol as a ‘liquid bullet’ and announced the activation of the Hard Enforcement phase of Operation Iron Star, aimed squarely at illegal alcohol sales and public drinking. “We are now coming after the source. Illegal steam sellers, after-hours liquor outlets, tucker shops, clubs or bars breaking the law as you are providing the ammunition for violence.” The operation has been strengthened with additional personnel drawn from Police Headquarters, Mobile Squads, Dog Units, Water Police, reservists and specialist units. These teams are now leading high-visibility patrols across known hotspots. In a move aimed at reinforcing public trust, NCD Police have also begun random drug and alcohol testing of officers deployed under Operation Iron Star. “To lead the city, we must be beyond reproach and any officer found under the influence while on duty, will be removed immediately and face disciplinary action.” The operation has been supported by partnerships with city authorities, emergency services, businesses and community leaders. Police say logistical support from stakeholders such as hydration and shelter for peace posts has helped maintain round-the-clock visibility across the capital. As the city approaches New Year’s Eve, police have issued a clear warning that enforcement will tighten further. Public drinking and drink-driving will result in detention, illegal traders will face closure and prosecution, and gatherings that spill onto public roads will be dispersed. Residents are being urged to celebrate responsibly and within their homes as the year comes to a close. “We want to enter 2026 with safety and sense and the rule of law will be the only guest of honour this New Year’s Eve.” Operation Iron Star remains active across the National Capital District as police continue efforts to protect communities during one of the city’s most vulnerable periods.

While many families were preparing for the festive celebrations, National St John Ambulance (NStJA) was preparing for one of the busiest nights of the year.For Konia Kuman, this year’s Christmas Eve was especially meaningful. It was the first time he took charge as Operations Commander, leading St John Ambulance crews through the demanding festive season. Mr. Kuman, a young ambulance officer from Simbu Province, has served with National St John Ambulance for nearly four years. This festive season, he stepped into a leadership role during a period known for high emergency callouts and long hours. Speaking during the recent Christmas Eve operations, Mr. Kuman said his journey into ambulance service began with a simple desire to help others. “Growing up, I was always interested in how ambulances work and how they help people,” he said. “When I got the opportunity to join, I took it. Helping people has always been part of who I am.” He also expressed that his first days on the job confirmed that he had chosen the right path. “The first time wearing the uniform and responding to calls was a whole new experience.” “Seeing the impact, we make and the appreciation from the public gave me a real sense of purpose.” That sense of purpose has now carried him into leadership. Now as Operations Commander for the festive season, Mr. Kuman said the role comes with responsibility and pressure, but also pride. “I looked up to the leaders before me and the ones who guided and mentored me.” “I have learnt from them, and now it is my turn to lead.” In addition, with Christmas Eve through to New Year expected to bring increased emergency callouts, Mr. Kuman said teamwork remains key to managing the workload. “This job is never done alone and with that, I am grateful for my crew and their support as we stand ready to serve the community throughout this festive season.” As sirens cut through the Christmas night, Mr. Kuman stood at the centre of operations, proving that behind every emergency response is a young professional answering a calling and not just doing a job.                           

National St John Ambulance (NStJA) has increased its emergency response during the festive season to keep communities safe across Port Moresby, Central Province, Lae, and Kokopo.NStJA is working closely with the PNG Fire Service and the Royal Papua New Guinea Constabulary (RPNGC) to manage the expected rise in emergency callouts during Christmas and New Year. During Christmas, ambulance crews in Port Moresby, were stationed at Badili, Gerehu, and 9-Mile Police Stations, as well as the Waigani Fire Station, allowing for faster response times in busy areas. Police worked alongside ambulance officers to help keep crews safe while they respond to emergencies. Ambulance Operations Executive Director Mr. Terence Torea, said the festive season usually brings more emergency calls, many linked to alcohol use. “During the festive season, we often see a sharp increase in calls for help.” “Many of these incidents are related to violence and injuries caused by excessive alcohol consumption.” “To manage this, we added more ambulance crews to ensure people continue to receive urgent medical care.” Extra ambulance crews have been operating in Port Moresby since Monday, 22 December, and will continue through to Sunday, 4 January 2026. These crews are working 12-hour shifts from 11:00am to 11:30pm, on top of regular staffing. To further support operations, thirteen additional First Responders have also been added to the Port Moresby roster. Meanwhile, in Lae and Kokopo, extra ambulance crews were on duty from Christmas Eve to Boxing Day, and again on New Year’s Eve, with standby teams ready if demand increases. With these arrangements in place, a total of 14 emergency ambulance crews will continue to be on duty nationwide during peak festive periods. Crews are also supported by rapid response units, doctors, and paramedics. “Our priority is the safety of the public and our ambulance officers,” Mr Torea said. “We thank communities for their continued support and for looking out for our crews.” Furthermore, NStJA also acknowledged strong community support in Port Moresby, Lae, Kokopo, Bereina, Kwikila, and Kupiano, and thanked police and fire services for their ongoing cooperation. NStJA has also urged everyone to celebrate responsibly and help keep the festive season safe for all. In the event of an emergency, the public is advised to call 303 1000 or the toll-free number 111.