30-yo man refused bail for assaulting Gurias supporters
A 30-year-old man from Muntma Village, Mul-Baiyer District, Western Highlands Province, has been arrested and charged, with police refusing bail, in connection with an alleged offence committed on Sunday at the Santos National Football Stadium in Port Moresby.
National Capital District Metropolitan Superintendent Warrick Simatab confirmed that the suspect is currently detained in the Boroko Metropolitan Cell.
He said the suspect has been refused police bail but may apply for court bail.
Superintendent Simatab stated that the suspect's actions inside the stadium were unacceptable and portrayed a negative image to other spectators attending the game on Sunday.
According to the police report, officers on duty were alerted to a man misbehaving at the stadium on Sunday, August 30, 2026. It was reported that the suspect allegedly assaulted a Rabaul Gurias supporter.
Police officers from Boroko and other supporting units responded swiftly, identified the suspect, and apprehended him on-site. He was taken to the police station, formally charged, and placed in custody without bail.
While commending the quick response from police officers, Superintendent Simatab appealed to the public to maintain proper conduct and respect one another at public venues like the Santos National Football Stadium when supporting their respective teams.
"The NCD Metropolitan Command strongly condemns the harassment of opposing fans and spectator violence in our public sporting venues. Lawlessness under the guise of sports fandom will not be tolerated," he said.
"Rival fans targeting and harassing opposing supporters in the stands threaten public safety and ruin the core spirit of our national sport. Ongoing hooliganism jeopardises local competitions and severely damages our nation's image in the international community.
"Wearing team colours or holding a match ticket does not give anyone immunity from criminal prosecution. If you engage in violence at a sporting venue, you will be arrested and processed through the court system."
He added that with Papua New Guinea preparing to celebrate its 51st Independence Anniversary in just 16 days, as well as hosting the PNG Games in November, preparing for the Rugby World Cup, and pursuing the PNG 2028 NRL bid, the Metropolitan Command calls on all residents and sports enthusiasts in the capital to reflect on their conduct.
He urged the public to take pride in these national events, enjoy the spirit of competition, respect opposing supporters, and act as law-abiding citizens at all public gatherings.
"Let us demonstrate civic pride and unity as we approach our national celebrations, the PNG Games, the Rugby World Cup, and the PNG 2028 NRL Bid, ensuring our public arenas remain safe for families and international visitors alike," he said.
Superintendent Simatab also appealed to everyone in Port Moresby to act responsibly, emphasizing that, as the national capital, Port Moresby welcomes visitors from all walks of life and that mutual respect is essential.