Crackdown on alcohol as crime surges before PNG’s 50th anniversary

In a decisive move to curb rising alcohol-related violence in Port Moresby, authorities have imposed sweeping restrictions on liquor sales across settlements and selected suburbs just weeks before Papua New Guinea’s 50th Independence anniversary.

The National Capital District Liquor Licensing Committee made the announcement recently, citing growing concern over public safety following a spike in alcohol-fueled crimes in areas like Eight Mile, Nine Mile, and Konedobu.

“As the metropolitan city, we are in total preparation to celebrate 50 years. And as you can see, a lot of social problems, alcohol related which is a continued problem.

“So, the licensing committee decided to put restriction to all the settlement areas and some of the suburb that also sell alcohol, thus the licensing committee board made a decision yesterday,” said Committee Chairman and Port Moresby Northeast MP, John Kaupa.

The new regulations came into effect immediately on Monday, August 16, 2025, and will remain in place until January 1, 2026.

“The 50th anniversary is a historic moment for our country. But it must be safe for everyone especially our mothers and children to move around freely and celebrate,” Kaupa added.

“50 years’ independence is special day for this country. Everybody is going to celebrate in their provinces, districts and in the cities. We also make sure that there's peace, harmony, and our mothers and children are safe. They must move around freely to celebrate this 50th anniversary,” Kaupa added.

The restrictions, backed by police, specifically target known high-risk areas and are expected to significantly reduce disorder and crime during the Independence period.

Metropolitan Superintendent Warrick Simatab clarified that the measure is not a total ban, but a targeted restriction designed to contain the problem at its source.

“Police requested these controls, and we’ll be working closely with the committee to enforce them. We’re focusing on hotspots, not the entire city to make sure public safety is prioritized,” Simatab said.

Violators face a K500 fine and confiscation of liquor licenses.

As Papua New Guinea approaches its golden jubilee, the message from city authorities is clear that celebration must not come at the cost of safety.