NCDC imposes K500 spot fine for Betelnut chewers

Betelnut chewers to pay K500 fine. photo credit: asopa

People who chew betelnut in public places in  Port Moresby will be fined K500. This was announced by controller of the buai ban Honk Kiap, who is deputy city manager for community and social services in Port Moresby.

According to Kiap, an awareness will be carried out on the implementation of the new law in the city in the next two months.

Mr Kiap says the reason why this law will be implemented is because  the betelnut  chewers are spitting everywhere. He says if betel nut chewers are not willing to pay the fine, they will be asked to say how they will get rid of the spittle when they chew it.

"It may force us to the extremes to demand an explanation from the chewer on the method of disposing the spittle. If it means to get rid of it by swallowing it, that must be demonstrated or if by spitting in a container or plastic bag that must also be demonstrated to the officers," said Mr Kiap.

He says the message must be clear to the public of these new harsh measures that the NCDC reserve police will be taking to enforce the buai ban within the city.

"These harsh steps will be taken because it has taken us three to almost five years and people have not taken heed of the law that has come into place.

"That we will not back down so I would like the public to know about it," said the Deputy City Manager.

---