Youths surrender homebrew manufacturing equipment to Police

A strong partnership between police and the local community in Sabusa has resulted in the surrender of equipment used to manufacture illicit alcohol, commonly known as fire wara, in a positive start to 2026 for Central Province.

A few days before Christmas, the Central Command Quick Response Force [QRF], led by team leader Jonathan Ila, acted on a tip-off regarding the illegal production of the harmful spirit at Sabusa, just outside Port Moresby. During the raid, police confiscated gas cylinders and other equipment used in the manufacture of the illicit brew.

Building on that operation, the Hanua Maragi community held a meeting on Sunday, 4th January, where young men voluntarily surrendered additional equipment used in the production of fire wara to police. The event was witnessed by Ward Councillor John Arua, community leaders, and officers from the Central Command QRF team.

Addressing the gathering, Councillor Arua warned young people that new employment opportunities were expected in the area and those who continued to produce, sell, or consume illicit alcohol would “miss out big time.”

He urged the youth to make responsible choices for their future and the wellbeing of the community. Youth representative Desmond Omai, who surrendered his equipment, said 2026 marked a turning point in his life.

“This year is a year of change for me. I have given up my equipment to do something better in my life rather than destroying my future and disturbing the peace within the community,” he said.

QRF team leader Jonathan Ila stressed the importance of parental responsibility, calling on parents to be more aware of their children’s daily activities.

“Parents must know whether their children are attending school, what they are doing after school, and especially what they are doing after 6pm,” he said. He also encouraged community leaders to create a supportive environment that gives young people direction, noting that rising social and economic pressures make guidance and support more important than ever.

Vanapa Brown LLG President Francis Isoaimo commended all stakeholders for their collective effort in encouraging youths to abandon harmful practices for a safer Sabusa.

Meanwhile, Central Provincial Police Commander Acting Superintendent Joseph Salle praised his officers for what he described as a successful community policing engagement at the start of 2026, highlighting the importance of cooperation between police and communities in addressing social issues.

The initiative has been welcomed by residents as a step towards restoring peace, safety, and opportunity in Sabusa and surrounding areas.