The Independent Commission Against Corruption (ICAC) has carried out its first major arrest under Operation Tyenna, targeting a former senior politician and several individuals implicated in an alleged corruption and misappropriation case involving more than K1.7 million within the Papua New Guinea Sports Foundation (PNGSF). 

Background of Operation Tyenna 

Launched in February this year, Operation Tyenna uncovered that the PNGSF awarded four contracts to Karma Investment Limited, a privately registered company in Papua New Guinea, without following proper procurement procedures. 

Investigations revealed that Karma Investment Ltd is solely owned and directed by Ms. Kathleen Ruth James, an Australian citizen with permanent PNG resident. Ms. James is the wife of Mr. Don Polye, who at the time served as Minister for Higher Education Research Science and Technology, and Sports. 

The contracts, intended for the supply of sporting equipment and social mapping services, remain unfulfilled. To date, no sporting equipment has been delivered, and no social mapping services have been provided. 

ICAC Investigation and Arrests 

The ICAC executed multiple search warrants across various locations, including the PNGSF offices, securing both documentary and electronic evidence related to the allegations. 

As a result, the ICAC has arrested and charged the following individuals: 

1. Mr. Don Polye – Former Minister for Higher Education, Research, Science and Technology, and Sports 
   Charges: Official Corruption, Conspiracy to Defeat Justice, Attempting to Pervert Justice. 

2. Mr. Albert Veratau – Former Executive Director of PNGSF 
   Charges: Official Corruption. 

3. Mr. Maino Maniana – PNGSF Project Manager 
   Charges: Official Corruption. 

4. Mr. Benjamin Malol – Project Masters Ltd Project Manager 
   Charges: Official Corruption, Conspiracy to Defeat Justice. 

The ICAC has also obtained a Warrant of Arrest for Ms. James and is working closely with the Office of the Attorney General and the Office of the Public Prosecutor to initiate extradition proceedings to bring her before the courts in PNG. 

Operation Tyenna marks the beginning of several major investigations involving prominent public figures and business entities. Under the strong guidance of the ICAC Acting Commissioners, the Commission will continue to investigate and bring to justice those involved in corrupt conduct in Papua New Guinea. 

The ICAC acknowledges the assistance and cooperation of the Royal PNG Constabulary in the arrest and detention of Mr. Polye. 

The ICAC encourages the public to take an active role in combating corruption by reporting any suspected cases through the following channels: 

• In person: Central Government Office, Tower B, Melanesian Drive, Waigani, Port Moresby 

• By Post: PO Box 353, Vision City 

• By Email: complaints@icac.gov.pg 

• By Phone: 300 7500 

Complaint forms are available on the ICAC website: https://www.icac.gov.pg/operations/  

A copy of the Official Media Release from the ICAC on Operation Tyenna can be accessed here: ICAC Arrest Polye – Independent Commission Against Corruption