PNG Police Arrest Student Over Grade 12 Examination Invigilator Attack

 Police in PNG’s Hela Province have arrested a male student accused of attacking a Grade 12 examination invigilator with a bush knife at Komo Secondary School, with the suspect now detained at Tari Police Station as investigators prepare to lay formal charges.

Hela Provincial Police Commander Inspector Arau Mairi/Photo supplied

The incident occurred at about 9.15am on Wednesday, October 14, 2026, during the ongoing Grade 12 National Examinations in Komo-Hulia District. Hela Provincial Police Commander Inspector Arau Mairi confirmed the arrest and said the case had been referred to the Criminal Investigation Division (CID) for further processing.

Inspector Mairi said the suspect, who is from Apono village in the Hayapuga Local Level Government area, allegedly attacked teacher Virgil Verave after cheating was discovered during the examination.

Mr Verave, who is attached to the Catholic Archdiocese Education Division, had been assigned to invigilate the examinations at the Catholic agency-run school.

According to police, the teacher allegedly caught students attempting to exchange cash for examination answers. The situation reportedly escalated when a student, whose name has been withheld and who currently serves as the school’s Student Representative Council (SRC) president, allegedly armed himself with a bush knife.

The student allegedly chased Mr Verave from the classroom into the school grounds before striking him on the head, hands and calf muscles.

Mr Verave, a native of Gabone village in Rigo District, Central Province, sustained serious injuries and was taken to Tari Hospital for emergency treatment. Police said his condition was being monitored.

Inspector Mairi condemned the alleged assault, warning that teachers and examination supervisors must be protected while carrying out their responsibilities.

"I strongly condemn this attack. Teachers and examination invigilators are performing a national duty to protect the integrity of our education system. Any attack on them is an attack on the future of our children and will not be tolerated," PPC Mairi said.