Moapa villagers along the Aroma Coast in Central Province were the recipients of a police team who held and election awareness program this week.
This was done with the assistance from the Maopa Ward 3 LLG Councilor, Pere Enara.
Speaking at the market place, the team emphasised the respect of individuals to vote freely without being intimidated and undue influence by supporters from other candidates.
The team also told villagers that intending candidates should not campaign before the issuing of writs.
Central Province Sergeant, Lua Auri said those campaigning before the writs are issued will be arrested and charged under the Electoral Laws.
“The consumption of illegal substances such as homebrew known as ‘fire wara’ and marijuana drugs is now a major concern in Maopa village and other villages along the Aroma Coast.”
“The use of those illegal substances especially by youths during the election can be disruptive.”
He added that unlicensed firearms are also a concern and the police team wants the people along the Aroma Coastal villages to report anyone who has in his/her procession firearms that can be a threat to a peaceful and safe election.
“Bribery can be used to intimidate visitors in all sorts of forms as apart from hard cash to people by intending candidates, food and gifts can also be related to as a form of bribery given the situation during the election period.
Councilor Enara commended the Central Police for making time to speak to his people in the Maopa Ward 3 LLG.
He urged the police team to visit other villages along the Aroma Coast and raise awareness there as well.