‘Revoke liquor licences’

 By ELIAS LARI

THE law and order committees in Porgera-Lagaip, Enga, want the provincial and national governments to revoke all liquor licenses in the district.

At a meeting last Thursday, district administrator Mori Iarume said alcohol abuse had caused many law and order problems.

“Enough is enough,” he said. 

“We cannot sit and watch Porgera be controlled by drunkards and lawless people.”

Iarume said business houses and leaders were blaming alcohol for all the law and order problems and wanted the liquor licensing board to revoke all licenses in the area.

He said a 200-page petition was being prepared to be given to the provincial government and National Executive Council. 

The meeting was attended by local MP Nixon Mangape, Barrick Gold representatives, law and order committees, councillors and village court officials.

Mangape and provincial police commander Supt Philip Weliyan also signed the petition.

“We are sorry that it will affect business people operating lodges but we have to do it for the good of the people,” Iarume said. 

Sam Angai from Barrick Gold, developer of the Porgera mine, said the company was happy with the idea and would 

help with funding and other 

logistical support.

Porgera Development Authority has also allocated K1 million for law and order each year.

Porgera landowner and Kumbipara club owner John Kulina said they only sold beer, adding that it was the people who were misbehaving, not the liquor.

Porgera Sai, Palipaka and Porgera Pele Paspas lodge owners could not be reached for comment.