Police officer arrested in Hela Province for breaching liquor ban

A serving member of the Royal Papua New Guinea Constabulary in Hela Province has been taken into custody today after being caught consuming alcohol in defiance of the province-wide liquor ban.

The arrest was confirmed by Provincial Police Commander, Chief Inspector Michael Welly, who stated that the officer is currently detained at the Tari police cell.

PPC Welly emphasized that police officers must set the standard for discipline and respect for the law. “He will go through the normal court process. Discipline should start with police officers,” he said, emphasizing the importance of accountability within the force.

The liquor ban in the province was formally introduced following the swearing-in of the Hela Provincial Liquor Licensing Board [HPLLB] on February 28, 2025.

The HPLLB Act 2022 was subsequently endorsed and certified by the Minister for Provincial Affairs, Soroi Eoe, under Sections 140 and 141 of the Organic Law on Provincial Government and Local Level Governments.

The ban was enacted as part of broader efforts to address persistent law and order challenges linked to alcohol abuse, which has been a contributing factor to violence and social unrest in the province. While some people view alcohol as a form of leisure and entertainment, provincial authorities argue that the restrictions are necessary to safeguard community safety and stability.