Sepik villagers destroy homebrew kits, marijuana

 THREE villages in the Numbo LLG area of Yangoru-Saussia district in East Sepik destroyed homebrew kits and marijuana in the presence of police at Wewak last Friday.

Elderly men from Kinineng, Sufonduong and Yekimbole villages, along with youths, attended the surrender ceremony at Sufonduong village and promised to give up the illegal practice in front of community leaders and police.

A roll call of 156 names of those who produced, consumed and caused trouble under the influence were read out by community leaders and they signed an oath to quit the practice. Copies of the oath will be kept by community leaders, police and the district court.

Ward member Dickson Maniwara said this was the first and the last surrender for the village as the community would mobilise to hand over to police anyone who produced and consumed homebrew and marijuana.

Police in Wewak led by Chief Sgt John Hasimani and local police from Tangori praised the community leaders for taking the initiative to rid steam and drug from the community which contributed to many social problems over the years.

“Police will not be here all to time to make sure you live according to the promise you make today. However, you the peace-loving people from these villages will now be the eyes and ears of police in your ward area,” Hasimani said.

“It is your duty to report to police if certain people overlook the promise they make today and go back to consume steam or marijuana.

“The community at the neighbouring Hagama village had apprehended three suspects and handed them over to police. They were charged and convicted by the court.

“I urge you to do the same so that the community will be safe for our mothers and children.”

Eight gas cylinders with accessories and mature marijuana plants were surrendered.