Latest news in Papua New Guinea? September 5th, 2026

The major developments and headlines in Papua New Guinea include:

• Major Port Moresby Bullion Robbery Investigation: Police Commissioner David Manning and national law enforcement are continuing a massive investigation following what is reported to be one of the largest heists in PNG history. Armed assailants intercepted two security vehicles in Port Moresby, seizing 25 gold bars (sourced primarily from the Porgera Gold Mine and Golden Valley Enterprise) alongside cash and firearms. Islands Business+ 1
• Pacific Islands Forum & Regional Security: Following meetings at the Pacific Islands Forum Leaders’ gathering in Palau, Prime Minister James Marape urged Pacific leaders to maintain solidarity on regional security and climate resilience while expanding PNG’s diplomatic footprint across the Pacific. Department of Prime Minister and National Executive Council
• El Niño Response & 2026 Supplementary Budget: The Marape administration has advanced preparations for a supplementary budget allocating approximately K500 million toward a national El Niño relief response, alongside domestic fuel relief measures and planning for the 2027 national elections. Department of Prime Minister and National Executive Council
• Domestic Aviation Expansion: PNG Air celebrated the inaugural commercial flight of its newest ATR aircraft, named Mangi Hela, to Tari Airport in Hela Province. Post Courier
• Utility Enforcement: State authorities and PNG Power leadership launched a targeted nationwide crackdown against commercial and residential power theft and billing defaulters.