After several years of litigation, last Friday, 14 June 2024, the National Court ruled in favour of Nambawan Super Limited (NSL) by dismissing an appeal made by an illegal squatter, challenging the summary ejectment order of the District Court for NSL's Land Portion 2158 at 9-Mile, Bush Wara.
The Court found in 2017 that the illegal squatter, whilst working at the Department of Lands, fraudulently acquired the title to Portion 2158, and ordered him to vacate the land. But the squatter continued to occupy the land, in defiance of this Court Order from 2017, while launching several court proceedings against Nambawan Super, frustrating its efforts to secure possession of its rightful asset. On Friday, 14 June 2024, after the National Court reaffirmed its decision of 2017, refreshed orders were issued to proceed with the eviction of this particular illegal squatter.
On Thursday, 20 June, the Sheriff's Office together with the Royal Papua New Guinea Constabulary (RPNGC) executed the Eviction Order for Portion 2158, with vacant possession secured and handed back to NSL who own the land in trust, on behalf of its 228,319 Members.
Nambawan Super has followed all legal requirements to lawfully secure the titles of its Land Portions. The outcome of the National Court's decision over Portion 2158 reaffirms Nambawan Super's position, and that is to serve and protect the interests of its 228,319 Members.
NSL has explored every possible option to find an equitable resolution for all parties. Despite their efforts, all options have been exhausted leaving eviction as the final recourse. In light of this, NSL requests the support and cooperation of all stakeholders, to ensure the carefully planned Bush Wara Eviction Program for Portions 2156, 2157 and 2159 is implemented in a safe and peaceful manner.
Illegal squatters on the remaining Land Portions have been granted a 120-Day grace period that commenced on Tuesday, 12 March 2024 and will end of Wednesday, 10 July 2024. The Eviction Exercise will commence on Thursday, 11 July 2024. NSL strongly encourages all illegal squatters to immediately dismantle their personal property and voluntarily relocate now, with less than 20 days remaining. As a Trustee, Nambawan Super Limited cannot use Members' funds to assist Squatters. Those who would like assistance should speak to the Police located on the Site Office at Bush Wara.
