Netball PNG asks media to separate ‘PNG Pepes’ from Raka Nope’s legal matter

In an official statement released on Tuesday, Netball PNG has requested the media to refrain from using the term 'PNG Pepes' when reporting on the case of former national netball player Raka Nope.

Nope, who last represented the country in netball is currently facing manslaughter charges against her in court.

Netball PNG made this official request following an article published by one of the mainstream media outlets yesterday.

Netball PNG President Ulato Avei said Nope last represented the country in 2010 and hasn't been involved with the federation since.

Whilst acknowledging factual reference that Nope was once a national representative, Netball PNG respectfully requests the media to isolate the matter from the sporting body.

President Ulato said it is a personal matter currently in court and has nothing to do with Netball PNG at present, thus, requested if the term PNG Pepes is excluded in future media reports.

Netball PNG is of the view that the use of the term Pepes can unfairly associate the sport and its athletes with current legal proceedings.