Police confiscate illicit alcohol in Mt Hagen

The growing sale and consumption of illicit alcohol in Mt Hagen city has become a major concern for police, with authorities blaming the illegal liquor for increasing social disorder and lawlessness in the province.

Western Highlands police have now confiscated large quantities of illicit alcohol from several shops in Mt Hagen during the ongoing High Speed Police Visibility Operation.

Provincial Police Commander Chief Superintendent John Sagom said the illegal alcohol is being sold cheaply in shops around the city and police have warned shop owners and distributors to stop selling the products immediately.

PPC Sagom said the illicit alcohol contains very high alcohol content, far above the legal six percent limit allowed in the country.

He said the strong alcohol content is causing consumers to become heavily intoxicated, leading to disorderly behaviour, violence and other law and order problems in Mt Hagen and surrounding communities.

“The alcohol being sold illegally is dangerous. Many people are becoming heavily intoxicated and causing trouble in the city and communities,” Sagom said.

He added that police alone cannot fight the issue and called on relevant authorities to work together in addressing the illegal sale and distribution of illicit alcohol in the province.

Sagom also warned that police will continue confiscating illicit alcohol and arresting those involved in the illegal business as part of efforts to restore peace and public safety in Mt Hagen city.