Lae police seek opinion on buai chewing, smoking

Lae police are seeking opinion from residents on whether betelnut and smoking should be banned in public places.

Metropolitan superintendent, Anthony Wagambie Jnr, clarified that this does not include residential areas and established markets that trade betelnut.

“We are seeking your opinion if we should ban this at Top Town, Eriku shopping centre, bus stops and other public areas,” he said.

“We continue to have street sales because there is a market for it, meaning people continue to buy betelnut and cigarettes from these street vendors. If people stop buying then there would not be a reason for them to sell.

“Street vending contributes to filth, creates a cover for petty crimes, harassment of people, loitering, with people chewing and spitting, causing a risk in the spread of TB.

“Please give your opinion so that we, as a community, can find a way forward.

“From these recommendations, a proposal will be sent to Lae City Authority and Lae City Council to look into the legal aspects to implement.

“CCTV will soon be installed at certain locations (Top Town, Eriku and other areas) to monitor this as well as providing surveillance for public safety.

“Together we can make Lae safe.”

(Lae police filepic)

Author: 
Press release