Mahlon WINSTON

Police in East New Britain (ENB)are on high alert and in-search of under a dozen suspects that are responsible for vehicle hijacking and armed hold-up at a store in Rabaul on Monday August 31st, at approximately 12, midday.From reports received from ENB Provincial Police Commander, Chief Superintendent – Amanda Kates, a PMV bus from Malex 2 was held up by up to 12 youths, armed with bush knifes and a homemade gun.A number of school students were also on-board the PMV bus at the time of the incident. Fortunately, none of the students were harmed.The incident has raised concerns about community safety and ongoing law enforcement efforts in the region.After seizing control of the vehicle, the offenders used it to stage a daring hold-up at Lings Store in Rabaul. The thieves enter the store and took all the cash registers. Fortunately, the management of Lings had most of the cash, leaving only small amounts in each register.The suspects then escaped the scene in the stolen PMV bus, resulting in a high-speed chase by police and Ling’s security contractor, NKCL Security.The stolen vehicle was later abandoned near Malaguna 1 in a drain, adjacent to the local workshop. During the attempt to evade police, one of the suspects was shot and injured by police officers. The injured suspect was taken to Nonga Hospital, where he is receiving medical treatment. His condition remains undisclosed.According to Chief Supt. Kates, the criminals, shot and injured one of the students while trying to evade capture; however, this is yet to be confirmed as police are still continuing their investigations.Community members are urged to provide any information that might assist police with their investigation. The police force remains focused on ensuring that such violent acts are addressed swiftly and effectively.

At the official launched of the K8.35 million water rehabilitation project yesterday, in Elevala village, Port Moresby, NCD, a concerned NCD Governor, Powes Parkop challenged Water PNG to step up in its services and enough with the excuses.Governor Powes Parkop emphasized the critical importance of basic services, particularly water, as the foundation of community well-being, economic prosperity, and national progress. He declared that Water is Life, underscoring that without access to clean and reliable water, communities cannot thrive, and the city cannot develop.The project focuses on rehabilitating pipelines in Ward 1, covering communities from Elavala, Hanua Bada, Rabiagini, Gabi, Tatana, Araira, Kokou, and surrounding villages. It is part of a broader government effort to address decades-old infrastructural deficiencies that have hindered the city’s growth and service delivery.“The capacity of our water systems was built many years ago and is now inadequate for our expanding city,” Governor Parkop explained.“We need to plan better for the future, ensure high standards, and provide reliable water to support our people, businesses, and industries,” Parkop said.Governor Parkop also highlighted the need for strategic planning and urged Water PNG to elevate its standards, advocating for future-ready infrastructure that can accommodate population growth and urban expansion.He called for a comprehensive approach that includes alternative water sources, such as developing new catchments and water reservoirs, to reduce reliance on aging systems.Furthermore, the governor criticized past management of water services and stressed that the government will pursue policies to ensure that basic utilities like water, electricity, and sanitation are prioritized and efficiently delivered.He announced plans to establish standalone water supply systems for villages and communities that are underserved, including a soon-to-be-commissioned bottled water project in Pari.As climate change and phenomena such as El Niño threaten water security nationwide, Governor Parkop emphasized that the city must develop resilient and sustainable water systems.“We cannot rely solely on external sources; we must be proactive and innovative in safeguarding our water supply,” he urged.The launch of this water rehabilitation project signifies a renewed focus on essential service delivery, recognizing that access to clean water is fundamental to improving living standards and fostering sustainable urban growth.The government’s commitment to infrastructure modernization aims to set a standard for the nation and inspire broader development initiatives.This project marks a pivotal step toward ensuring Port Moresby’s future as a resilient, well-served city, capable of meeting the needs of its growing population and economy.

In a significant step towards ensuring the integrity of the upcoming National General Election, the East New Britain Provincial Police Command held a major mobilization and training session today at the Provincial Headquarters (PHQ) in Kokopo.Chief Superintendent Amanda Kates, East New Britain Provincial Police Commander, announced that 175 police reservists have officially undergo specialized preparation for NATEL 2027 (National Electoral Task Force). The operation is designed to support the Electoral Commission in maintaining peace, order, and security during the electoral process.The training exercise was notably strengthened by the presence of staff from the Electoral Commission, marking a crucial collaborative effort between law enforcement and election officials. This partnership aims to streamline communication and operational protocols, ensuring that both entities are synchronized in their mission to protect the democratic process.Chief Supt. Kates noted that the inclusion of Electoral Commission staff underscores the shared responsibilities and a unified approach to safeguard the votes of every citizen in East New Britain.Kates also emphasized that the primary objective of this mobilization is to create an environment where voters can participate without fear or intimidation.“Our goal is clear, let us make NATEL 2027 a free, fair, and safe election. We ask for the cooperation of all citizens as we work together to uphold the sanctity of the ballot box.”The East New Britain Provincial Police Command urges all community members to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities to local authorities or the Electoral Commission directly. By working together, the province can ensure a peaceful and successful electoral outcome.

Five senior public officials in New Ireland Province have been arrested and charged over the alleged misappropriation of K908,839.50 in Tuition Fee Free (TFF) funds, while a sixth person has been charged with money laundering.The arrests followed an investigation by the Independent Commission Against Corruption (ICAC) into alleged financial abuse involving TFF funds allocated to New Hanover Secondary School (NHSS) between 2021 and 2024.ICAC said the investigation began after a complaint was lodged by a concerned citizen over the alleged misuse of education funds.Those arrested and charged include Fredrick Mahisu, who served as principal of New Hanover Secondary School from 2021 to 2024; Apollo Pangasa, Coordinator Subsidy with the National Department of Education attached to the New Ireland Provincial Administration; Benson Apelis, Director for Education; Wesley Siangat, Director Education; and Lindsay Eruel, Provincial Examination Officer.Also charged is Shirley Nathasa Perry, the wife of Mahisu, who faces a money laundering charge.ICAC alleges that Mahisu submitted inflated student enrolment figures to the Department of Education in Waigani, resulting in excess TFF payments being made to New Hanover Secondary School through the Provincial Subsidy Office.The commission said the Provincial Government later identified the overpayment after comparing the payments with the school”s actual enrolment figures. The surplus funds were subsequently withheld as “outstanding” subsidy payments.It is alleged that Mahisu, who had access to pre-signed cheques for the school account, made significant unauthorized cash withdrawals.ICAC further alleges that the withdrawals were facilitated by approval letters from a Provincial Education officer to BSP Kavieng, and that Mahisu allegedly paid the officer for the approvals.The investigation also alleges that some officers pressured the Subsidy Office to release the withheld money as outstanding subsidy payments, which Mahisu would allegedly withdraw and deposit into personal accounts.According to ICAC, of the K908,839.50 allegedly misappropriated, K278,268 was allegedly deposited into Mahisu's personal account, while K307,098.60 was paid to his company.The commission alleges a further K114,822.90 was spent on four vehicles; K64,450 was transferred to Perry, and K144,200 was allegedly paid to other officers.Mahisu and Perry were arrested in Kokopo and appeared before the Kokopo District Court, where both were granted bail. Their matter was listed for mention later in September.Pangasa, Apelis, Siangat and Eruel were arrested in Kavieng and have also been granted bail by the District Court.ICAC Acting Commissioner, retired Judge Don Sawong, thanked the Provincial Police Commanders, including the Divisional Commanders for East New Britain and New Ireland, as well as the New Ireland Provincial Administration, for their cooperation during the investigation.The arrests form part of ICAC's ongoing efforts to investigate alleged corruption and protect public funds from misuse.All accused persons are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty by a court of law.

A major K8.35 million water rehabilitation project, was launched in Ward 1 of the Moresby North-West Electorate to improve access to clean, safe and reliable drinking water for thousands of residents across several coastal communities.Launched yesterday in Elevala village, Port Moresby, NCD, the project will rehabilitate, upgrade and expand the existing water supply network, benefiting communities in Hanuabada, Elevala, Gabi, Mirigini (Badihagwa), Tatana-Araira, Baruni, Koukou and Sasiva.In Elevala Village, Motu-Koita East, the project is expected to address years of inadequate and unreliable water infrastructure, with about five villages in the area set to benefit from an improved water supply system.The project is being delivered through a counter-funding partnership involving the National Government, National Capital District Commission (NCDC), Motu-Koita Assembly, Moresby North-West District Office.An upfront payment of K2.5 million has been made to the contractor, Monier PNG Limited, allowing construction work to begin.The project was initiated by the Member for Moresby North-West, Lohia Boie Samuel back in 2021, when he won the seat in the By-election.The project follows an assessment conducted in 2021, which identified ageing infrastructure, inadequate water access, water rationing, significant water losses and a lack of proper metering as some of the major challenges affecting communities in the area."Under the rehabilitation program, ageing distribution pipelines will be replaced and upgraded, while the existing water network will be expanded to improve supply capacity and reliability," he said."Existing water tanks and pump stations will also be refurbished to strengthen the system and enable it to meet the needs of a growing population."A key objective of the project is to reduce the water rationing experienced by communities and work towards providing households with a continuous 24-hour, seven-day water supply.The project will also address water losses through the rehabilitation of ageing infrastructure and the introduction of proper water metering," said Boie Samuel.This means that communities currently classified as unbilled consumers will be transitioned to a metered system, enabling accurate billing, improved revenue collection and greater accountability for water supplied.The design also includes improvements to water delivery for communities located on higher ground, where inadequate water pressure has been a longstanding problem.Fire hydrants will be installed as part of the upgraded network, providing additional fire protection infrastructure and improving community safety.All these will be done by the project Contractor, Monier Limited, who has the latest and improved construction materials.According to Monier Representative, Mr. Anup Singh, the pipes they will be using are scientifically tested and proven as ecofriendly and will last for 50 years.For residents of Elevala and neighbouring villages, the project represents a significant investment in basic infrastructure and community wellbeing after years of challenges associated with inadequate water supply.The initiative is also expected to contribute to improved public health by providing communities with greater access to clean and safe potable water, reducing the risks associated with unreliable or unsafe water sources.The Moresby North-West Member has indicated that Wards 7, 8, 10 and 11 are expected to follow after the successful completion of the Ward 1 project.The broader objective is to progressively improve water supply services across the electorate and ensure communities have access to reliable, adequate and sustainable potable water.The Ward 1 project is therefore, being regarded as an important step towards improving the health, safety and quality of life of communities across Moresby North-West.

After a decade of near misses and consistent top-tier performances, Canberra-born golfer Josh Armstrong finally conquered his demons, securing his first-ever Challenger PGA Tour of Australasia victory at the 2026 PNG Open.The triumph, that was held on Sunday, August 30, at the Royal Port Moresby Golf Club, marked a significant milestone in Armstrong’s career and serves as a proud moment for PNG golf, highlighting the nation’s increasing influence on the regional sporting stage.The event was elevated by high-profile attendance, including special guests NRL legend Jarome Luai and Prime Minister James Marape, underscoring the tournament’s growing prestige.Armstrong entered the final day just one shot behind Queenslander Louis Dobbelaar, setting the stage for a tense showdown.The breakthrough began early on the back nine, where Armstrong surged into the lead with a dramatic eagle on the par-5 ninth hole, followed immediately by a birdie on the tenth.His display of resilience and precision seemed to signal that the long wait for a title might finally be over.However, the 27-year-old faced critical tests later in the round. A costly bogey on the short 13th hole, combined with a double-bogey on the par-4 14th, briefly unraveled his advantage.The error allowed Victorian challenger Lachlan Aylen to close the gap, creating a three-man battle for the crown heading into the closing holes.Armstrong’s experience proved decisive when it mattered most. Regaining his composure after the double bogey, he made pars on the 15th and 16th to stabilize his position.The defining moment of the day arrived on the 17th, where Armstrong executed a remarkable recovery shot from dense vegetation, sinking a crucial 10-foot birdie putt to reclaim a one-shot lead.With momentum on his side, Armstrong closed out the tournament with a steady par on the 18th, finishing with a final-round score of three-under 69.He ended the week at 14-under par, two strokes clear of joint runners-up Dobbelaar and Aylen.This victory is more than just a trophy; it is a career-defining achievement for Armstrong, who had previously recorded six top five finishes, including a tie for third place at the Heritage Classic in April.By topping the Challenger Tour’s Order of Merit, Armstrong has earned automatic entry into two of Australia’s premier golf events: the Australian PGA Championship and the Australian Open.Lachlan Aylen’s second-place finish guarantees him additional opportunities in the upcoming season, while Louis Dobbelaar is poised for an exciting summer of competition following his strong showing.The 2026 PNG Open has not only showcased PNG’s potential to host world-class events but also highlighted the country’s ability to produce and support elite golfers.

A fire destroyed a storage shed at the Rabaul Volcano Observatory after strong winds whipped the fire from a nearby hillside towards the building.According to reports received by PNG HAUSBUNG from authorities on ground, the fire broke at around 12:00PM.It is believed the wind whipped a spark of fire onto the building that quickly spread. Fortunately, the fire did not spread to the nearby buildings.The East New Britain Provincial Police Commander (PPC) Chief Superintendent Amanda Kates, reported that the fire services arrived on scene after an hour in which they were able to control the remaining fire from spreading to other buildings.The storage shed was completely burnt down to ashes including a boat that was kept in the shed. No injuries were reported.A formal investigation will be conducted to determine the exact cause of the fire and other necessary or additional findings.Attempts to reach Rabaul Volcano Observatory Director were unsuccessful as his phone remained off.

Classes at Palmalmal Secondary School in East New Britain province, have been temporarily suspended for three weeks following a civil unrest among students that led to the burning of the school library.The suspension, ordered by the Chairman of the East New Britain Provincial Education Board (PEB) Mr. Levi Mano will run starting from Friday, August 28 to Friday, September 18, 2026.According to reports received through the Provincial Police Commander (PPC) of East New Britain, the school library was burnt down on the night of Tuesday, August 25, following escalating unrest linked to the Board of Governors’ decision to expel students for various disciplinary reasons.The circumstances surrounding the burning remain unclear, with authorities saying the immediate priority is to protect the safety and wellbeing of students and staff, as well as school property.According to Mr. Mano, the school administration and authorities will undertake several measures aimed at restoring normalcy during this suspension period.This includes an urgent meeting for the Board of Governors to review the incident, the disciplinary processes used, and a way forward for the school.Additionally, parents, community leaders, and other stakeholders will also be engaged through Parents and Citizens cluster meetings at Matong Primary School, Pomio Junior High School, Palmalmal Secondary School, and Uvol Junior High School.“Full cooperation must be given to the Royal PNG Constabulary (RPNGC) to investigate and identify the perpetrators responsible for the burning of the school library and acts of unrest.”Meanwhile, the Provincial Education Team including secondary inspectors and provincial education officers, will conduct an internal investigation into the roles and responsibilities of the school administration and Board of Governors in relation to the incident.Mr. Mano has also directed that assessment and maintenance work on the damaged school property begin immediately, noting that any students found to have been involved in the destruction of school property are expected to face criminal charges.He emphasized that efforts during the suspension period must focus on restoring peace, order, and confidence among students, parents, and the wider community to ensure a safe resumption of classes for Term 4.“All students have been instructed to return to their homes or guardians during the suspension period.”“No student is permitted to remain on the school grounds without written authority from the Care-Taker Principal.”Furthermore, District Education Officers will conduct monitoring visits to ensure compliance throughout the three-week suspension.The Provincial Division of Education, District Education Officers, and School Inspectors have also been instructed to continue assessing the situation, provide oversight and management, and prepare a full report before classes resume.

Papua New Guinea has completed its first-ever Joint External Evaluation (JEE), marking a major milestone in the country’s efforts to strengthen national preparedness and response to public health emergencies.Held from August 24th to the 28th, 2026, the five-day evaluation brought together government ministers, technical directors, health security experts, and international evaluators to assess PNG’s capacity to prevent, detect and respond to public health threats under the International Health Regulations (IHR 2005).The evaluation was conducted in collaboration with the World Health Organization (WHO) and involved experts from health, agriculture, environment, security, finance, and other key sectors.JEE had provided PNG with a shared understanding of the country’s health security strengths and gaps.The recommendations would guide the development of a national health security action plan and support continued improvements in emergency preparedness and response.The findings would now be used to develop a prioritized and fully costed National Action Plan for health security and also provide the government with a clear basis for deciding where further investment is required and will support our development partners to align their assistance with PNG’s priorities.The evaluation brought together national decisionmakers and international experts, including WHO Regional Emergency Director for the Western Pacific Dr. Gina Samaan and Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) Food Safety Officer Dr. Jorge Pinto Ferreira.Regional expertise was also provided by organizations including the Asian Development Bank, Tonga’s Ministry of Health, New Zealand Defence Force, Australian Centre for Disease Control, and Singapore’s National Centre for Infectious Diseases.WHO Representative for PNG Dr Rajendra Prasad Hubraj Yadav said the value of the evaluation would ultimately be measured by the actions taken to address identified gaps.“WHO would continue supporting the Government and partners to turn the recommendations into practical action from national systems through to provinces, districts, and frontline health services.”The JEE identified several priority areas for strengthening PNG’s health security, including:Establishing or designating a National IHR Authority to coordinate implementation of the International Health Regulations.Strengthening the role of the IHR National Focal Point.Using Ward Development Committees to strengthen Village Health Assistant functions, including emergency preparedness and response.Developing and implementing a five-year National Action Plan for Health Security.Enacting the revised Public Health Act and developing a funded implementation plan.Increasing investment in essential health services and Water, Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH) at primary care levels.Implementing the National Immunization Strategy 2026–2030.Improving timely information sharing across One Health sectors.Establishing a scheduled, multi-year programme of national and multisectoral simulation exercises.The JEE was supported through WHO’s partnership with the Australian Government Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT).The evaluation is expected to provide an evidence base for Government and development partners to better target investments and strengthen PNG’s health security systems.The focus now shifts from evaluation to implementation, with the Government expected to use the findings to guide investment and action over the coming years.

In a landmark move to accelerate energy development, the Papua LNG project has secured three key agreements signed on Thursday, August 27th, at the Government House in Port Moresby.This significant occasion was witnessed by Governor-General Bob Dadae, Prime Minister James Marape, State Ministers, and Heads of government agencies of the Petroleum and Energy sector.Signed between the PNG Government, its agencies, and the Papua LNG Developers ExxonMobil and Total Energies, these agreements mark a significant step toward triggering the Final Investment Decision (FID) by December 15, 2026.The renegotiated structure, facilitated by the State Negotiations team led by Executive Chairman Dairi Vele and regulated by the Minister for Energy Jimmy Maladina, aims to unlock billions in foreign direct investment and secure long-term energy security for Papua New Guinea.The Specific three critical components of the deal include:  1. The Risk-Sharing Price Stabilization Mechanism - given that the project’s estimated costs had risen to K18 billion due to delays since the original 2019 signing- rendering it initially unprofitable- the government negotiated a “give and take” structure. After re-quoting contractors, costs were reduced to K14 billion, but the project remained marginally viable. This new agreement establishes a mechanism where the government provides financial support if oil prices fall below a certain threshold, ensuring the project’s viability. Conversely, if oil prices rise significantly, the terms ensure shared benefits or reduced government liability. This de-risk the investment for developers, enabling them to proceed toward the FID.2. Increase in Government Equity Stake - an agreement was executed for the PNG Government to purchase an additional 2.5% equity stake in the Papua LNG project. This raises the national government’s total ownership from 22.5% to 25%. With this increased stake, the PNG Government becomes the second-largest shareholder in the project, granting it greater influence over operations and higher financial returns from the development.3. Commitment to the Final Investment Decision (FID) Roadmap - while not a single document, the signing formalized the binding conditions set by the developers to trigger the FID. The parties agreed on strict milestones to be met by December 15, 2026: Completion of the Development Forum. Securing all necessary gas off-take agreements. Raising the required capital of K14.5 billion from international markets.This commitment signifies that the developers have secured the necessary political and fiscal framework to begin the final push for these items within the deadline.Prime Minister Marape emphasized that the renegotiated terms balance investor incentives with national gain. He noted that while the construction cost was initially tendered at $18 billion, it came in at K14.5 billion after a second round of tenders. To ensure the project remained investable, the government provided an incentive package valued at approximately K1.95 billion.“This instrument paves the way for us to move closer to FID before the end of this year,” said Prime Minister Marape. “We have introduced an agreement structure that ensures the state does not lose out, maintaining its total gain, while providing necessary incentives for investors.”“It is a ‘win-win’ follow-around model. In good times, the state recovers funds, and in bad times the incentive protects the investment, including our partners Kumul Petroleum which holds a 22.5% stake.”The Prime Minister highlighted the competitive global landscape, noting that partners Total Energies and ExxonMobil have larger stakes in projects such as Mozambique, involving K22 billion and K30 billion investments respectively, however, he credited their continued faith in PNG.“It is not easy in this climate to secure world-class investments. Lucky for us, we have the reference of ExxonMobil and Total Energies who have been with us since 2003.” “I want to counsel the people of Papua New Guinea: these are global investors. They could be investing elsewhere, but they see Papua LNG as a priority.”The signing brings the Papua LNG project, valued at nearly K60 billion in foreign direct investment, closer to its target FID date of December 15, 2026. Crucially, the Prime Minister outlined a vision that extends beyond Papua LNG alone.“What happens in Papua LNG is a life beyond Papua. We do not want to repeat the mistakes of 2008-2014 where First Gas was achieved but construction stalled.”“With ExxonMobil responding positively, we are now sequencing Papua LNG construction, followed potentially by the Pinyang LNG construction,” Prime Minister Marape declared.He projected that proper sequencing could lead to over K100 billion worth of construction activity over the next decade, integrating smaller fields in Gulf Province. This strategy aims to position PNG as a sustained oil and gas producer well into the 2070s and 2080s.The Prime Minister concluded by thanking all parties involved, urging national unity as the country prepares for the next phase of development.

Prime Minister James Marape has called on leaders and citizens across Papua New Guinea to embrace a national “reset” of the heart, mind, and character, saying genuine change in the country must begin with individuals and those entrusted with leadership.Speaking at the National Day of Prayer and Repentance, Prime Minister Marape appealed to leaders from both the public and private sectors to reflect on their responsibilities and commit themselves to building a better Papua New Guinea.He emphasized that the call for a national reset was not simply about changing policies or systems, but about transforming the mindset, character, and hearts of the people.“Reset means a reset of mindset, character and the heart for change to take place,” Prime Minister Marape said.He stressed that the responsibility for the country’s future did not rest solely with the government but belonged to every Papua New Guinean.According to the Prime Minister, “Reset PNG” belongs to everyone, with leaders, families, communities, churches, businesses and individuals all having a role to play in bringing about positive change.He reminded the nation of Papua New Guinea’s Christian foundation, saying Christianity had been embraced by the country’s forefathers and had remained an important part of the nation’s identity.“PNG is declared a Christian country when our forefathers accepted the Christian faith,” he said describing Christianity as a unifying force capable of bringing people together despite the country’s many differences.Prime Minister Marape acknowledged that the nation had experienced numerous challenges and major disasters over the years, with many Papua New Guineans enduring hardship and suffering.However, he said the resilience of the people had enabled the country to survive difficult periods and continue moving forward.“PNG has faced so many major disasters. The people have suffered terrible ordeals, but we survived and made it through.”He encouraged Papua New Guineans to draw strength from their faith and to allow Christian principles to guide the country's leadership and development.The Prime Minister called on leaders to place Christ at the centre of their decision-making, urging them to allow faith and moral values to influence decisions affecting the nation.“Let Christ take the lead of every leadership decision, every family, every community and every development of this nation.”He also delivered a message to the young people and children of Papua New Guinea, encouraging them to remain faithful to God as they grow and take up their responsibilities in the future.“To the young children of this nation, never leave God. Always walk with God.”Prime Minister Marape concluded that the National Day of Prayer and Repentance should not be viewed simply as a one-day event, but as an opportunity for every citizen to reflect on their lives and make a renewed commitment to positive change.He urged those who participated in the event to leave with a renewed sense of purpose and a transformed outlook.“Leave this event today with a new, reset heart and mind,” he said.The Prime Minister’s message placed emphasis on personal responsibility, national unity, faith and leadership, calling on Papua New Guineans to collectively work towards a nation guided by stronger values, integrity and a commitment to positive change.He said the future of Papua New Guinea depends on the willingness of its people and leaders to make that change beginning with themselves.

Further investigation by the East New Britain Police into the recent boating accident in the Pomio District has revealed that the number of victims is more than previously stated.Police confirmed today that there were eleven (11) people on board the boat at the time of the incident, correcting earlier reports that suggested only six passengers.Provincial Police Commander (PPC) Amanda Kates revealed to PNG Hausbung to set the record straight.“The initial report of six people being on board at the time of the accident was incorrect. There were unequivocally eleven people on board when the accident occurred,” stated PPC Kates.According to the statement provided by the boat’s skipper, the vessel departed from Palmalmal with six individuals. En route, the boat stopped at Keke in Pomio village, where it picked up five students from Pomio Junior High School, bringing the total number of persons on board to eleven.PPC Kates also discredited rumours suggesting a higher casualty count. She emphasized that reports circulating in the community claiming fifteen people were involved in the accident are incorrect and misleading.As of today, the situation remains grim as search and rescue operations continue. The current confirmed figures remain as 2 confirmed dead, with identities to be verified and released once formalities are complete. Seven have survived and 2 are still missing as search efforts are ongoing.Rescue teams have successfully located and retrieved both the dinghy and its motor engine, which are now being preserved as evidence for the investigation.The boat operator, a 53-year-old male from Central Pomio, is currently in police custody and is assisting with the investigations.PPC Kates stated that the operator is likely to face charges of manslaughter pending the conclusion of the full investigation. Authorities are examining whether negligence played a role in the sinking.In light of this tragedy, the East New Britain Provincial Police have issued a stern reminder to all small boat operators across the province to take heed of strong wind warnings and observe sea conditions.Operators must strictly follow weather reports and warnings issued daily by the National Maritime Safety Authority (NMSA) and the Weather and Disaster Centre. All boats must carry appropriate safety equipment on board for all passengers if they wish to go out to sea. Failure to do so puts lives at unnecessary risk.The investigation is ongoing, while search efforts are continuing for the 2 missing.