Overview:
Reports of two separate encounters involving women visitors at Long Island Park have prompted an investigation and renewed reminders for hikers to stay alert and prioritize their safety. What happened, and what precautions can visitors take when exploring Palau’s trails?
By: L.N. Reklai
KOROR, Palau (September 4, 2026) Authorities are investigating reports involving two women visitors who allegedly encountered the same man while hiking at Long Island Park in Ngermalk, with the suspect arrested and later released pending further investigation.
The incidents, reported Aug. 9 and Aug. 31, involve allegations of inappropriate conduct toward women visiting the popular hiking area. Authorities have not charged the suspect with a crime, and the allegations have not been proven in court.
According to authorities, a 25-year-old Bangladeshi national, Shariful Islam Mia, was identified in connection with the reports.
In the Aug. 31 incident, a Japanese woman was hiking on the Ngermalk Rock Island Trail when a man approached her and began introducing himself, according to the report.
During the conversation, the man allegedly grabbed the woman’s hands and groped her. She told him to stop and said she had a boyfriend. According to the report, the man initially agreed and briefly let her go before allegedly grabbing her again and pushing her to the ground.
The woman screamed for help, prompting the man to allegedly release her and run away, authorities said. She then ran down the trail, encountered other people and reported what had happened.
Authorities also received a report concerning an Aug. 9 encounter involving an Australian couple who had gone hiking at Long Island Park.
According to a report made to Koror State Rangers, a Bangladeshi national approached the Australian woman while she was at a table and started a conversation. The man allegedly introduced himself as a Bangladeshi engineer and offered to guide her to a nearby waterfall where she could swim.
The woman accepted the offer and began walking along the trail with him, according to the report. During the walk, the man allegedly began talking about sex and other sexually related subjects.
The woman reportedly became uncomfortable and told the man she wanted to return immediately. According to the report, the man then demanded payment for guiding her along the trail.
The woman allegedly paid him to avoid further problems and returned to her tour company, where she reported the encounter. The matter was subsequently reported to Koror State Rangers.
Authorities arrested Mia based on the reports. He was later released while the investigation continues.
The allegations stress the importance of remaining alert when hiking or visiting less-populated areas, particularly for women traveling or exploring alone. Visitors are encouraged to trust their instincts, avoid situations that make them uncomfortable and seek help or move toward other people if they feel threatened.
Travelers hiking in unfamiliar areas may also consider going with a companion, informing someone of their plans and location, and reporting suspicious or threatening behavior to authorities or their tour operators.
The investigation remains ongoing, and no determination of criminal responsibility has been made.