Madang police to enforce betelnut and smoking ban starting Monday

PPC Robert Baim addressing the media after the cleanathon on Saturday *(Image: NBC News)*

Provincial Police Commander [PPC] Superintendent Robert Baim has announced that full enforcement of the ‘No Betelnut Chewing and No Smoking’ law will commence in Madang’s Central Business District (CBD) tomorrow, Monday, March 2.

Superintendent Baim stated that sufficient awareness has been conducted and there will be no further excuses for those violating the ban within town limits.

"There is no excuse for anyone coming into the CBD to chew betelnut. The awareness phase is over," Baim said. "If you are coming into town, clean your mouth."

The PPC emphasized that the community-led voluntary cleanathon program is a collective effort designed for the benefit of all residents, not just stakeholders or the police.

"This is not just about the cleanliness of Madang; it is about your health," Baim said. "Betelnut chewing leads to cancer and the spread of TB."

Baim re-emphasized that the law was enacted by Parliament and confirmed that police officers will begin making arrests on Monday. He called on the public to take personal responsibility for the town's image.

Children from Holy Spirit Primary School taking part in the cleanathon on Saturday *(Image: NBC News)*

"Police alone cannot do this. Together, we can restore Madang to its former glory," he said.

The PPC extended special appreciation to the schools that participated in the year's second cleanathon, thanking Provincial Education Director Alphonse Igag for allowing students to take part.

"I am happy the school children participated; they are the most active part of our population. I ask adults to respect their efforts. If you want to smoke or chew, go to designated areas," Baim said.

Organizers are now considering extending the cleanathon program into local settlements by mid-year. Baim issued a stern warning to those living in these areas: "If you cannot clean your settlements, police will come and help clean them for you. If we find rubbish inside your house, we will clean that, too."

He explained that these initiatives are part of a broader strategy to transform Madang into a cleaner, safer environment.

On Saturday, Superintendent Baim joined his officers and their families in the cleanathon for the first time since the program's inception last May. Speaking to reporters afterward, he was impressed with the turnout.