Selling and chewing of betelnut (buai) in public places in the city is illegal.
The National Capital District Commission reiterated on January 13th in light of a confrontation involving its security guards and a bus driver with his crew.
The incident happened on Sunday along the Waigani Drive when the security guards, who are manning the street lights to ensure sales and chewing of betelnut are prohibited, intervened to apprehend a driver who was allegedly caught red-handed chewing betelnut inside the PMV bus at the Waigani traffic signals.
City Manager Bernard Kipit condemned the use of violence by both parties as a means to solve the problem, urging city residents to cooperate with the guards in discharging their duties effectively and efficiently for the cleanliness and betterment of the city.
He said there is stability in cleanliness of the city after the APEC meeting because of a job well done by the guards.
Kipit further said their rules of engagement were to ensure there is zero tolerance on chewing and sales of betelnut in public places in the city.
He clarified that at the moment they are not allowed to charge spot fines against offenders, but only through a competent court of justice.
“Port Moresby is everyone's home away from home. Take ownership and responsibility over the cleanliness of the city and observe laws and regulations to create a better city for all,” stated Kipit.
The City Manager also called on the people to sell and chew their favourite nut at designated places and their own properties and yards.
He commended the police for intervening swiftly before the confrontation got out of hand.