Prisoner on double life year sentence released on parole

A prisoner who was given a double life- year prison term was released on parole this week from Madang's Beon jail.

The prisoner is Waga Kumutz, aka Rambo Blong Bugati, aged 69; and has served a total of 31 years behind bars.

Kumutz was first sentenced to jail for rape in 1993, however; escaped soon after.

Whilst at large, he committed two murders in 1994, one of which was a wilful murder case.

He was re- arrested by police, tried in court, and was found guilty of both charges and given a double life- year sentence.

However; in July of 2004, after serving out 10 years in jail and participating in rehabilitation programs, CS officers escorted him to his village, Bom; for a reconciliation program.

During the reconciliation ceremony, Waga pleaded for forgiveness from the families and relatives of the first deceased person and the community at large.

He also promised that he would never escape again but would die in prison unless God permits him one day.

After serving out more than 20 years in prison, Waga filed a human rights case in court to be allowed to apply for parole, which the National Court allowed.

In 2019, after serving 25 years; Waga was finally allowed to apply for parole, and his application was submitted by officers to the Parole Board.

In July of 2022, he was escorted to Erima Village for a second reconciliation ceremony with the family and relatives of his second victim.

After almost six years of waiting, his parole application was finally granted on July 9, 2025, resulting in his release from custody.

Waga is now a free man and owes his release to the Grace of God.

He said his release is testimony to those sentenced to life year or those given death penalties that there is always hope in God to be released one day.

Another prisoner who was also released on parole last week is Seth Uyan Talil from Bilia Village in Madang District.