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.

Headlines

• PNG Central Bank Warns Public Against Crypto and Fast-Money Schemes
• PNGDF Suspends Media Statements on Recruitment Review
• ​PNG Backs First Large-Scale Biodiesel Project
• PNG Opposition Sounds Alarm Over Deepening Defence Crisis and Corruption

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.

Headlines
​

• 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.

Headlines

• ​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
• ​PNG Airport Security on High Alert After Multiple Drug Busts at Jackson’s International Airport

“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
​

• 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

He made the remarks during a press conference held in Port Moresby, where five Opposition members addressed growing public unease over the Defence Force recruitment controversy.

Mr Nomane said his office has yet to receive any formal documentation regarding Dr Billy Joseph’s reported decommissioning, adding that transparency from the government remains lacking.

The Opposition leader stressed that the Defence Force issue reflects a broader pattern of systemic corruption within government agencies and institutions across PNG.

He is now pushing for an independent inquiry, urging that qualified and impartial individuals be appointed to fully investigate the matter and recommend corrective measures.

The Opposition has given the Prime Minister 24 hours to respond to their demands.

Wabag MP Tom Lino said corruption must be confronted directly, warning that those responsible should not be protected and must face the Leadership Tribunal.

East Sepik Governor Allan Bird supported the call for an independent investigation, saying restoring public confidence in the Defence Force is now critical.

headlines
​

• ​PNG Soldiers question dismissals as recruitment probe begins
• PNG Opposition claims K156 billion spent with little to show, Nomane says citizens under pressure
• ​PNG Fuel Prices to Drop to K4 Per Litre Under New Government Subsidy
• ​PNG reviews Solomon Islands call for police support after cyclone damage

A tense overnight standoff at Murray Barracks in Port Moresby has ended after soldiers dismantled a roadblock they had set up along access routes to the military base in Papua New Guinea.
Although the barricade has been removed, the group of soldiers involved have not withdrawn their concerns, maintaining a structured four-point list of demands directed at the Papua New Guinea Defence Force (PNGDF) leadership, calling for urgent reforms and accountability.
The soldiers had earlier restricted movement in and out of the barracks, describing the action as a peaceful stand against alleged corruption and recruitment irregularities within the force.

At the centre of their demands is the call for the dissolution of the Defence Council, removal of senior personnel linked to recruitment processes, reinstatement of dismissed officers, withdrawal of disciplinary cases against serving members, and the establishment of an independent external investigation team.
Attempts by the Force Support Battalion Commanding Officer, Major Ashley Gamiandu, to engage the group were declined, with the soldiers insisting that only the PNGDF Commander should front them directly.
The soldiers have also indicated support for Prime Minister James Marape’s directive to pause internal investigations, but maintain that only an independent inquiry involving senior leadership will bring clarity to the allegations raised.

Headlines

• ​PNG Soldiers question dismissals as recruitment probe begins
• PNG Opposition claims K156 billion spent with little to show, Nomane says citizens under pressure
• ​PNG Fuel Prices to Drop to K4 Per Litre Under New Government Subsidy
• ​PNG reviews Solomon Islands call for police support after cyclone damage

The most recent interception took place on Thursday, April 9, when Air Niugini ground staff flagged suspicious cargo arriving on flight PX 189 from Mt Hagen. Aviation Security (AVSEC) officers moved in swiftly after identifying a passenger who collected the items using what was later confirmed to be a false identity.

A subsequent search uncovered 16 kilograms of marijuana, packed in two separate 8-kilogram bundles. The suspect was taken in for further questioning and later handed over to airport police for investigation.

Earlier, on Sunday, April 5, security officers seized 20.2 kilograms of marijuana from a passenger arriving from Tari Airport during a coordinated operation involving Air Niugini security and police. On the same day, another passenger bound for Goroka was found carrying 12 undeclared live rounds of 9mm ammunition.

The NAC has expressed concern over the repeated attempts to move illegal items through airport channels, particularly through domestic routes.

Acting Managing Director and CEO of NAC, Dominic Kaumu, said the pattern of detections points to a worrying trend that requires constant vigilance.

“Our teams together with other airport stakeholders have acted with vigilance and professionalism in stopping recent threats, but the growing number of incidents is deeply concerning,” Mr Kaumu said.

He added that screening processes and intelligence sharing are being strengthened across airports nationwide, especially at smaller regional hubs identified as potential entry points for illegal activities. NAC also acknowledged Air Niugini ground staff for their alert response and urged the public to report suspicious behaviour at airports.

Headlines
​

• PNG Soldiers question dismissals as recruitment probe begins
• PNG Opposition claims K156 billion spent with little to show, Nomane says citizens under pressure
• ​PNG Fuel Prices to Drop to K4 Per Litre Under New Government Subsidy
• ​PNG reviews Solomon Islands call for police support after cyclone damage

Some personnel said the lack of transparency has created uncertainty across the ranks, with many unsure about how decisions are being made and whether due process is being followed. They argued that the situation has affected morale and confidence in leadership.

The soldiers are now calling for clear communication and accountability, urging senior officers and the government to address the issues openly and ensure recruitment practices are fair and consistent.

Prime Minister and Defence Minister James Marape has responded by ordering an immediate halt to internal investigations related to the recruitment concerns, pending the outcome of a broader independent review approved by Cabinet.

He said the review would be led by the Chief Secretary, supported by the State Solicitor and an external high-level team, to ensure all allegations and recruitment practices are thoroughly examined in a transparent manner.

Mr Marape also called on the protesting soldiers to maintain discipline and return to duty, stressing that order within the force must be upheld at all times. “As Prime Minister and Defence Minister, I call on all personnel currently involved in these activities to immediately cease, return to the barracks, and report to their respective commanding officers,” he said.

“All officers are to be considered innocent until the full investigation is completed. Those who have raised concerns through proper channels will be protected.”

Headlines
​

• PNG Opposition claims K156 billion spent with little to show, Nomane says citizens under pressure
• ​PNG Fuel Prices to Drop to K4 Per Litre Under New Government Subsidy
• ​PNG reviews Solomon Islands call for police support after cyclone damage
• PNG Moves to Cut Fuel Costs with K1 Billion Relief Package

Papua New Guinea’s Opposition Leader James Nomane has raised concerns over what he describes as massive public spending with minimal national development outcomes, saying citizens are bearing the burden of rising economic hardship.
He made the comments in a statement, arguing that despite years of heavy government expenditure, basic services and infrastructure have not improved in line with the money spent.
Mr Nomane claimed that a total of K156 billion has been spent through successive national budgets since 2019, questioning where the funds had gone. “Where is this K156 billion?!” he asked, alleging that even the Prime Minister had acknowledged K56 billion remained unaccounted for.

He further stated that government borrowing has pushed national debt to K66.2 billion, almost double the K33.7 billion recorded in 2019. According to him, this reflects a growing reliance on debt to sustain government operations.
“The debt interest payments alone consumed K3.5 billion in 2025 — over K290 million every month,” he said, warning that such costs are limiting funding for essential services.
Mr Nomane pointed to conditions at Fairfax Harbour in Port Moresby, where many citizens have reportedly been seeking medical attention from a visiting Chinese hospital ship. “After K156 billion and still no world-class hospital,” he said.
On the fuel situation, he called for urgent tax reductions to ease living costs, saying import taxes and mark-ups should be removed immediately instead of seeking additional parliamentary approvals for new spending measures.
He also criticised the government’s COVID-19 response and said PNG remains heavily import-dependent with weak domestic production capacity.
“One hundred and fifty-six billion kina spent since 2019. National debt has doubled, and Papua New Guinea is going backwards,” he said.
“Our people are still worse off, looking for solutions on foreign ships docked on our shores. This is a crying shame.”
“If the government lacks the competence to govern, then it should simply step aside,” Mr Nomane added.

Headlines
​

• ​PNG Fuel Prices to Drop to K4 Per Litre Under New Government Subsidy
• ​PNG reviews Solomon Islands call for police support after cyclone damage
• PNG Moves to Cut Fuel Costs with K1 Billion Relief Package
• PNG's NCD Governor Parkop in China for Talks on Markets, Power and Transport Projects

The funds will be managed through the Bank of Papua New Guinea, enabling fuel companies to continue importing fuel without passing on high costs to customers.

This intervention comes as families and businesses across the country struggle to cope with increased transport and operational expenses.

Mr Lelang said the measure is designed to stabilise fuel prices in line with rates determined earlier this year.

He added that the Government is committed to cushioning the economic impact of fluctuating global oil markets on ordinary Papua New Guineans.

Headlines
​

• PNG Moves to Cut Fuel Costs with K1 Billion Relief Package
• PNG's NCD Governor Parkop in China for Talks on Markets, Power and Transport Projects
• Dr Billy Joseph Leaves Defence Post Temporarily as PNGDF Faces Scrutiny
• PNG fuel prices surge as global tensions push costs higher