Brutal Homicide of Tellames Johanes in Palau Sparks Community Concern & Customary "Bul"
Palauan found dead, homicide suspected as investigation unfolds
by Leilani Reklai
October 30, 2024
Koror State Animal Shelter
A 51-year-old Palauan man, identified as Tellames Johanes, was found dead early Tuesday, October 30, at the Koror State Animal Center in Malakal, where he worked as a security guard. Koror State Rangers discovered his body, and police suspect homicide, though they state the investigation is ongoing.
At a press conference held by Vice President and Minister of Justice J. Uduch Sengebau Senior, along with Director of Public Safety Curtis Elobt, officials confirmed that an official cause of death has yet to be determined. As of yesterday, authorities say that there are two persons of interest under investigation and more may be revealed as investigation progresses.
Director Elobt shared that investigators found a piece of concrete block with blood on it at the scene, but he cautioned against drawing conclusions until all evidence is gathered.
Acting Chief of Criminal Investigation Lt. John Gabriel urged the public to come forward with any information related to the case, stressing the importance of community cooperation.
The deceased, Tellames, had previously faced charges of drug possession and trafficking, though he was acquitted. Authorities could not confirm if the case is drug-related, citing the early stage of the investigation.
Addressing broader public safety concerns, Vice President Senior acknowledged Palau’s ongoing drug crisis and urged collective community efforts to combat it. In response, Koror State’s House of Traditional Leaders announced the implementation of a “Bul,” a traditional decree, establishing a curfew from midnight to 5 a.m. in Koror State. The decree, effective November 1, prohibits loitering, gatherings, and noisy activities on roads and in neighborhoods during these hours.
Both Minister Senior and Director Elobt expressed support for the curfew, emphasizing that it engages the community in supporting public safety efforts. Minister Senior highlighted the challenges faced by the limited police force, noting that only five officers are on duty per shift, making assistance from the House of Traditional Leaders invaluable.
Director Elobt reassured the public that despite the challenges, he remains optimistic about resolving the case.
https://islandtimes.org/palauan-found-dead-homicide-suspected-as-investigation-unfolds/
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Community mourns beloved public servant as Palau confronts drug crisis
by Island Times
November 1, 2024
By: Samantha Iyar
Family, friends and colleagues are mourning the loss of longtime public servant Tellames “Lams” Johannes, whose death on Oct. 29 has stirred both sorrow and renewed urgency in the fight against the island’s growing drug crisis. Johannes, a 51-year-old security guard at the Koror State Animal Center, was found dead last week, prompting an ongoing investigation by the Criminal Investigation Department, led by Acting Chief Lieutenant Gabriel, who confirmed the case is a top priority.
Vice President Uduch Sengebau Senior addressed the tragedy in a press conference, calling for the community to stand together against the impacts of drugs and violence. “Everyone needs to get involved with the war against drugs. We should not let drugs beat us in this community. Let’s work together to report what is happening,” Sengebau said. She urged community members to support authorities as they work to restore safety and well-being, noting that the Bureau of Public Safety cannot combat this crisis alone.
Johannes, known as “Lams” to family and friends, dedicated over 27 years to serving Koror State. The Koror State Government shared a tribute on social media on Oct. 31, signed by Governor Eyos Rudimch, describing Johannes as a cherished member of the community who served 22 years as an inspector in the Department of Building and Zoning and 5 years as a security officer in the Department of Conservation and Law Enforcement.
Expressing heartfelt condolences to his wife, children, extended family, and the Koror State community, the statement reflected on his commitment to public service and the many lives he touched. His passing serves as a reminder of the ongoing challenges the community faces and the collective action needed to safeguard its future.
https://islandtimes.org/community-mourns-beloved-public-servant-as-palau-confronts-drug-crisis/
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The Silent Majority
by Island Times
November 1, 2024
by Alonzo Kahalic
alkahalic6801@gmail.com
Dear Editor,
Election Focus: An Administration’s Silence on Justice
As Palau’s upcoming election looms, citizens look to their leaders for solutions to pressing issues. Yet, the recent silence from the administration on a deeply concerning event-a tragic death that has shaken the Palauan community-has raised questions about the government’s priorities. Today’s (31 Oct 2024) press conference, which was expected to address this devastating incident and provide insight into the administration’s efforts to secure justice, was instead focused on campaign tactics and political leaks.
The incident in question involves the brutal death of a Palauan citizen, an event that has ignited a profound sense of grief and fear throughout the community. People anticipated a government response acknowledging the tragedy, expressing compassion, and outlining measures to prevent such incidents. Yet, the lack of official comment on the matter has left a glaring void.
At the press conference, government officials barely touched on the incident, diverting to discussions about election campaigns and leaked documents.. This shift in focus has been difficult to reconcile for many Palauan’s who feel the administration is placing campaign concerns over genuine engagement with the public’s pressing issues. The disappointment is palpable, especially for those who hoped that national attention would be directed toward safeguarding Palauan lives and addressing public safety. Are citizens no longer the priority of this administration?
Leaked documents and campaigning were a prominent theme which many of us found troubling that a life-or-death issue affecting Palauan citizens took a back seat. The message seemed to place more weight on how political strategies would be affected than on a tragedy’s impact on the community’s sense of security and justice.
Palauans expect more from their leaders, particularly in times of distress and insecurity. When public safety and justice are sidelined in favor of political display, it creates a sense of disconnection between the administration and the people. With an election so close, there was an opportunity to set aside campaign narratives and demonstrate empathy, compassion, and proactive governance.
Considering today’s press conference, a question remains: What message does this administration send when it prioritizes political maneuvering over responding to tragedy? Campaigns are important, and documents can be consequential, but they should not overshadow a government’s obligation to protect its citizens. The administration’s stance, as evidenced today, underscores a fundamental disconnect between the people’s needs and the government’s agenda.
As Palau prepares to elect its next leaders, citizens are called upon to consider what qualities they value in those who govern them. Leaders who place human dignity and safety above campaign tactics will always be needed-those who recognize that the heart of a nation lies in its people’s welfare and justice. Today’s events served as a reminder: Palau needs a government willing to be a voice for its people, a government that prioritizes humanity over politics.
Your Humble Servant
Al Kahalic
https://islandtimes.org/the-silent-majority-17/
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Koror’s Bul Promotes Peace and Respect While Supporting Local Businesses’ Operating Hours
by Island Times
October 29, 2024
Ibedul Alexander Merep
By: Eustoria Marie Borja
KOROR, Palau - October 29, 2024 - Following last week’s issuance of a traditional Bul to curb disturbances and restore peace within Koror’s communities, the House of Traditional Leaders (HOTL) confirmed that the decree does not conflict with Palau’s national laws or affect local businesses’ operating hours. The Bul, effective November 1, restricts movement in inner hamlets from midnight to 5 a.m., while bars, restaurants, and other establishments are permitted to operate under existing legal guidelines as usual.
In an interview at the HOTL office, Ibedul Alexander Merep addressed community concerns about the potential impact of the Bul on businesses. “The Bul will not stop the bars from staying open until 2 a.m.,” Ibedul stated. “We just ask that when people are finished for the night, they head home rather than gather in public spaces during the restricted hours. This is about respecting the peace and quiet of our communities.”
The Bul responds to increasing reports of drug-related incidents, loud disturbances, and community safety concerns. Recent incidents, including a shooting at PIDC, have heightened residents’ concerns, particularly with the rise in late-night traffic in certain neighborhoods. “These issues extend beyond Koror; they’re happening across Palau,” said Ibedul, calling the Bul a proactive approach to restore order and respect.
Law Enforcement Support
The decree has garnered strong support from the Bureau of Public Safety (BPS) and local law enforcement. BPS Director Curtis Elobt confirmed his backing of the Bul, noting the alignment with traditional Palauan values while balancing the limitations of police resources. “We invited Director Elobt to meet with us at the HOTL office, and he’s fully on board,” Ibedul explained. “He supports the Bul, our community values, and our approach to safety.”
Ibedul also noted the strong working relationship between HOTL and the BPS Director, facilitated by their shared cultural understanding. “With Director Elobt as a Palauan leader, it’s easier for us to meet and share our concerns, especially because he understands the importance of our traditions and culture that safeguard our communities,” he added. Elobt acknowledged BPS’s current shortage of officers, which makes a community-led approach critical to enforcement.
Encouragement and not Penalties
While the Bul includes potential fines for violations, HOTL emphasized that penalties are intended as a last resort and not as a revenue source. “The Bul is about reawakening our traditional values of respect, not about collecting fines,” Ibedul explained. “We hope everyone will cooperate voluntarily. It’s about restoring harmony and ensuring our communities feel safe, especially as we head into the holiday season.”
A village chief will oversee fines when needed, considering the degree of the offense. Ibedul added that individuals who are cooperative and show respect may avoid penalties, emphasizing that the HOTL prioritizes community understanding and unity over punishment. “If someone apologizes sincerely and respects the Bul, we welcome that gesture. But if someone is uncooperative, the chief in charge of issuing the fine will determine an appropriate fine depending on the circumstances of the violation of the BUL .
Community Responsibility and the Future of the Bul
With the holiday season around the corner, traditional leaders believe this decree will encourage residents to celebrate responsibly and respect the harmony within their villages. “This has been our tradition for generations,” said Ibedul. “The Bul reflects our values of Siukang-caring for each other and living in harmony. We hope our younger generations will look up to this and carry these values forward.”
The HOTL intends to review the Bul’s impact in early 2025 to determine whether it should continue or be lifted. “We’re committed to assessing how the Bul affects our community’s peace and whether we’ll need it beyond next year,” Ibedul said.
The decree will be communicated through media channels to encourage community cooperation and understanding, with a dedicated hotline for reporting disturbances. As Koror’s leaders implement the Bul, they are asking for community-wide participation to restore peace, respect, and unity, especially for the younger generations.
“We’re grateful to all who support this,” concluded Ibedul. “Let’s make this holiday season one of peace and mutual respect, showing our communities and future generations the value of living in harmony and our Palauan culture.”
https://islandtimes.org/korors-bul-promotes-peace-and-respect-while-supporting-local-businesses-operating-hours/
by Leilani Reklai
October 30, 2024
Koror State Animal Shelter
A 51-year-old Palauan man, identified as Tellames Johanes, was found dead early Tuesday, October 30, at the Koror State Animal Center in Malakal, where he worked as a security guard. Koror State Rangers discovered his body, and police suspect homicide, though they state the investigation is ongoing.
At a press conference held by Vice President and Minister of Justice J. Uduch Sengebau Senior, along with Director of Public Safety Curtis Elobt, officials confirmed that an official cause of death has yet to be determined. As of yesterday, authorities say that there are two persons of interest under investigation and more may be revealed as investigation progresses.
Director Elobt shared that investigators found a piece of concrete block with blood on it at the scene, but he cautioned against drawing conclusions until all evidence is gathered.
Acting Chief of Criminal Investigation Lt. John Gabriel urged the public to come forward with any information related to the case, stressing the importance of community cooperation.
The deceased, Tellames, had previously faced charges of drug possession and trafficking, though he was acquitted. Authorities could not confirm if the case is drug-related, citing the early stage of the investigation.
Addressing broader public safety concerns, Vice President Senior acknowledged Palau’s ongoing drug crisis and urged collective community efforts to combat it. In response, Koror State’s House of Traditional Leaders announced the implementation of a “Bul,” a traditional decree, establishing a curfew from midnight to 5 a.m. in Koror State. The decree, effective November 1, prohibits loitering, gatherings, and noisy activities on roads and in neighborhoods during these hours.
Both Minister Senior and Director Elobt expressed support for the curfew, emphasizing that it engages the community in supporting public safety efforts. Minister Senior highlighted the challenges faced by the limited police force, noting that only five officers are on duty per shift, making assistance from the House of Traditional Leaders invaluable.
Director Elobt reassured the public that despite the challenges, he remains optimistic about resolving the case.
https://islandtimes.org/palauan-found-dead-homicide-suspected-as-investigation-unfolds/
------------------------------------------------------------
Community mourns beloved public servant as Palau confronts drug crisis
by Island Times
November 1, 2024
By: Samantha Iyar
Family, friends and colleagues are mourning the loss of longtime public servant Tellames “Lams” Johannes, whose death on Oct. 29 has stirred both sorrow and renewed urgency in the fight against the island’s growing drug crisis. Johannes, a 51-year-old security guard at the Koror State Animal Center, was found dead last week, prompting an ongoing investigation by the Criminal Investigation Department, led by Acting Chief Lieutenant Gabriel, who confirmed the case is a top priority.
Vice President Uduch Sengebau Senior addressed the tragedy in a press conference, calling for the community to stand together against the impacts of drugs and violence. “Everyone needs to get involved with the war against drugs. We should not let drugs beat us in this community. Let’s work together to report what is happening,” Sengebau said. She urged community members to support authorities as they work to restore safety and well-being, noting that the Bureau of Public Safety cannot combat this crisis alone.
Johannes, known as “Lams” to family and friends, dedicated over 27 years to serving Koror State. The Koror State Government shared a tribute on social media on Oct. 31, signed by Governor Eyos Rudimch, describing Johannes as a cherished member of the community who served 22 years as an inspector in the Department of Building and Zoning and 5 years as a security officer in the Department of Conservation and Law Enforcement.
Expressing heartfelt condolences to his wife, children, extended family, and the Koror State community, the statement reflected on his commitment to public service and the many lives he touched. His passing serves as a reminder of the ongoing challenges the community faces and the collective action needed to safeguard its future.
https://islandtimes.org/community-mourns-beloved-public-servant-as-palau-confronts-drug-crisis/
-----------------------------------------------------
The Silent Majority
by Island Times
November 1, 2024
by Alonzo Kahalic
alkahalic6801@gmail.com
Dear Editor,
Election Focus: An Administration’s Silence on Justice
As Palau’s upcoming election looms, citizens look to their leaders for solutions to pressing issues. Yet, the recent silence from the administration on a deeply concerning event-a tragic death that has shaken the Palauan community-has raised questions about the government’s priorities. Today’s (31 Oct 2024) press conference, which was expected to address this devastating incident and provide insight into the administration’s efforts to secure justice, was instead focused on campaign tactics and political leaks.
The incident in question involves the brutal death of a Palauan citizen, an event that has ignited a profound sense of grief and fear throughout the community. People anticipated a government response acknowledging the tragedy, expressing compassion, and outlining measures to prevent such incidents. Yet, the lack of official comment on the matter has left a glaring void.
At the press conference, government officials barely touched on the incident, diverting to discussions about election campaigns and leaked documents.. This shift in focus has been difficult to reconcile for many Palauan’s who feel the administration is placing campaign concerns over genuine engagement with the public’s pressing issues. The disappointment is palpable, especially for those who hoped that national attention would be directed toward safeguarding Palauan lives and addressing public safety. Are citizens no longer the priority of this administration?
Leaked documents and campaigning were a prominent theme which many of us found troubling that a life-or-death issue affecting Palauan citizens took a back seat. The message seemed to place more weight on how political strategies would be affected than on a tragedy’s impact on the community’s sense of security and justice.
Palauans expect more from their leaders, particularly in times of distress and insecurity. When public safety and justice are sidelined in favor of political display, it creates a sense of disconnection between the administration and the people. With an election so close, there was an opportunity to set aside campaign narratives and demonstrate empathy, compassion, and proactive governance.
Considering today’s press conference, a question remains: What message does this administration send when it prioritizes political maneuvering over responding to tragedy? Campaigns are important, and documents can be consequential, but they should not overshadow a government’s obligation to protect its citizens. The administration’s stance, as evidenced today, underscores a fundamental disconnect between the people’s needs and the government’s agenda.
As Palau prepares to elect its next leaders, citizens are called upon to consider what qualities they value in those who govern them. Leaders who place human dignity and safety above campaign tactics will always be needed-those who recognize that the heart of a nation lies in its people’s welfare and justice. Today’s events served as a reminder: Palau needs a government willing to be a voice for its people, a government that prioritizes humanity over politics.
Your Humble Servant
Al Kahalic
https://islandtimes.org/the-silent-majority-17/
-----------------------------------------------------
Koror’s Bul Promotes Peace and Respect While Supporting Local Businesses’ Operating Hours
by Island Times
October 29, 2024
Ibedul Alexander Merep
By: Eustoria Marie Borja
KOROR, Palau - October 29, 2024 - Following last week’s issuance of a traditional Bul to curb disturbances and restore peace within Koror’s communities, the House of Traditional Leaders (HOTL) confirmed that the decree does not conflict with Palau’s national laws or affect local businesses’ operating hours. The Bul, effective November 1, restricts movement in inner hamlets from midnight to 5 a.m., while bars, restaurants, and other establishments are permitted to operate under existing legal guidelines as usual.
In an interview at the HOTL office, Ibedul Alexander Merep addressed community concerns about the potential impact of the Bul on businesses. “The Bul will not stop the bars from staying open until 2 a.m.,” Ibedul stated. “We just ask that when people are finished for the night, they head home rather than gather in public spaces during the restricted hours. This is about respecting the peace and quiet of our communities.”
The Bul responds to increasing reports of drug-related incidents, loud disturbances, and community safety concerns. Recent incidents, including a shooting at PIDC, have heightened residents’ concerns, particularly with the rise in late-night traffic in certain neighborhoods. “These issues extend beyond Koror; they’re happening across Palau,” said Ibedul, calling the Bul a proactive approach to restore order and respect.
Law Enforcement Support
The decree has garnered strong support from the Bureau of Public Safety (BPS) and local law enforcement. BPS Director Curtis Elobt confirmed his backing of the Bul, noting the alignment with traditional Palauan values while balancing the limitations of police resources. “We invited Director Elobt to meet with us at the HOTL office, and he’s fully on board,” Ibedul explained. “He supports the Bul, our community values, and our approach to safety.”
Ibedul also noted the strong working relationship between HOTL and the BPS Director, facilitated by their shared cultural understanding. “With Director Elobt as a Palauan leader, it’s easier for us to meet and share our concerns, especially because he understands the importance of our traditions and culture that safeguard our communities,” he added. Elobt acknowledged BPS’s current shortage of officers, which makes a community-led approach critical to enforcement.
Encouragement and not Penalties
While the Bul includes potential fines for violations, HOTL emphasized that penalties are intended as a last resort and not as a revenue source. “The Bul is about reawakening our traditional values of respect, not about collecting fines,” Ibedul explained. “We hope everyone will cooperate voluntarily. It’s about restoring harmony and ensuring our communities feel safe, especially as we head into the holiday season.”
A village chief will oversee fines when needed, considering the degree of the offense. Ibedul added that individuals who are cooperative and show respect may avoid penalties, emphasizing that the HOTL prioritizes community understanding and unity over punishment. “If someone apologizes sincerely and respects the Bul, we welcome that gesture. But if someone is uncooperative, the chief in charge of issuing the fine will determine an appropriate fine depending on the circumstances of the violation of the BUL .
Community Responsibility and the Future of the Bul
With the holiday season around the corner, traditional leaders believe this decree will encourage residents to celebrate responsibly and respect the harmony within their villages. “This has been our tradition for generations,” said Ibedul. “The Bul reflects our values of Siukang-caring for each other and living in harmony. We hope our younger generations will look up to this and carry these values forward.”
The HOTL intends to review the Bul’s impact in early 2025 to determine whether it should continue or be lifted. “We’re committed to assessing how the Bul affects our community’s peace and whether we’ll need it beyond next year,” Ibedul said.
The decree will be communicated through media channels to encourage community cooperation and understanding, with a dedicated hotline for reporting disturbances. As Koror’s leaders implement the Bul, they are asking for community-wide participation to restore peace, respect, and unity, especially for the younger generations.
“We’re grateful to all who support this,” concluded Ibedul. “Let’s make this holiday season one of peace and mutual respect, showing our communities and future generations the value of living in harmony and our Palauan culture.”
https://islandtimes.org/korors-bul-promotes-peace-and-respect-while-supporting-local-businesses-operating-hours/