Court circuits supported by the Australia–Papua New Guinea Law and Justice Partnership (APLJ) are helping deliver timely and fair justice to communities that might otherwise experience long delays.
Between 20 July and 1 August, a team of law and justice officials from Lae successfully completed a court circuit to Salamaua in Morobe Province, following a previous visit in March this year.
The circuit brought court services directly to the people—resolving long-standing disputes, enforcing village court decisions, and helping restore peace and order in rural communities.
A total of 19 cases were heard, including 13 related to land disputes, domestic violence, and enforcement of village court orders, and six involving Sorcery Accusation Related Violence (SARV).
“This circuit has allowed us to reach out to communities and attend to outstanding land matters and enforce village court hearings,” said Magistrate Ngasaling Bingtau.
“We managed to resolve several long-pending cases and conduct land inspections, which are vital for maintaining peace in the communities and the district.”
Regional Court Registrar Nick Sawong said, “For many people in rural areas, this is a significant support in enforcing village court orders and facilitating land mediation. Without it, people often avoid accountability. We’re not only providing legal services, we’re also conducting awareness sessions to help communities understand court processes and resolve issues peacefully, rebuilding trust in the justice system.”
For community leaders like Gideon Caleb from Boakap village, the court circuit brought long-awaited relief.
“I’m happy and relieved. We have many land disputes in my community, and the situation is worsened by young people drinking cheap alcohol, which often leads to more conflict,” said Gideon.
The visit included community awareness sessions on key laws and penalties, particularly those relating to Gender-Based Violence (GBV) and Sorcery Accusation Related Violence (SARV). Community members were also informed about the roles of various justice agencies and the services they provide.
With support from APLJ, similar outreach has taken place in other parts of Morobe Province earlier this year, and more recently in island communities in Bougainville.
Court circuits are a regular initiative of the Magisterial Services of PNG, designed to extend justice services to rural and remote communities.
A land mediation being conducted at the Salamaua Guest House during the court circuit.
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