THE ongoing illegal sales of drugs and alcohol has reportedly become a growing concern at Afio Sub-Station in the southern region of Malaita Province.

Locals have raised alarms over the increasing use of marijuana and homebrew (commonly known as kwaso) which have been linked to domestic violence and criminal activities in communities in that region.

Residents said the issue, once more common in remote areas, is now surfacing within the station itself, threatening the peace and safety of those living and working in Afio – a key administrative and service centre in South Malaita.

A resident who wants to remain anonymous said, the situation is become worrying, citing regular trading activities involving illegal substances.

“The sale of these drugs and alcohol is becoming a serious concern for residents who want to live in a peaceful and safe environment,” the resident said.

He added that such activities not only disturb the peace but also undermine community efforts to maintain law and order.

“Maka’a Police are actively working to enforce the law and discourage residents from engaging in illegal sales. 

“They are also educating the public on the importance of crime prevention across communities in the southern region,” he said.

Afio sub-station serves as a hub for administration, healthcare, education, and development initiatives for southern region of Malaita. 

However, it continues to face various challenges, particularly in infrastructure and law enforcement capacity.

Residents are calling for stronger police presence and community cooperation to curb the spread of illegal substances and restore public confidence in the safety of the area.

By SOLOMON LOFANA

Solomon Star, Auki

Photo caption: Afio station in South Malaita. Photo courtesy of Studio-Homegrown Productions.