AUKI police in Malaita have arrested three young men for consuming alcohol in public last week during a public event in the township.
The arrests were made during a police public awareness campaign held in conjunction with the Christafari concert in Auki on Friday.
Reports indicated that a number of young people were seen drinking alcohol in public areas, prompting police intervention.
Malaita Provincial Police Operation Manager, Michael Ramosaea, confirmed to this paper that three individuals were apprehended for breaching public drinking laws.
“Drinking in public places is an offence. People need to be mindful and consume alcohol in appropriate, designated areas, not in public,” Mr. Ramosaea said.
He explained that the arrests were carried out as part of a public awareness program organized by the newly established Provincial Crime Prevention Unit.
Mr. Ramosaea also issued a stern warning to the public: “Anyone caught drinking in public places or in front of bottle shops will be arrested and charged with a criminal offence.”
He encouraged community members to work closely with the police to report such activities.
“The support of the public is crucial in helping us maintain law and order,” he added.
Mr. Ramosaea further noted that, in addition to the arrests, police also issued warnings to several individuals for causing noise disturbances in local communities.
By SOLOMON LOFANA
Solomon Star, Auki
