Police shut beer shop in Lae

A beer shop operating in the heart of Lae city was open for business today despite a liquor ban imposed ahead of Papua New Guinea’s 51st Independence celebrations.

The shop was operating despite clear instructions on the liquor ban being made known to businesses and the public.

Lae Metropolitan Commander Chief Superintendent Chris Kunyanban ordered police officers to close the shop, or the trader will face charges.

Kunyanban had earlier confirmed that the Morobe Provincial Government’s liquor ban was already in force and would be enforced by police.

“Liquor ban has already been imposed,” Kunyanban said.

“It has been distributed to different activities and stakeholders in that respect. Also, we have a copy, and we’ll be implementing the ban on alcohol within the city and within the province.”

Police will focus enforcement operations on Lae city, with other police units covering areas on the outskirts.

The closure comes as Lae marks PNG’s 51st Independence celebrations, with police warning businesses and the public to comply with the liquor ban and other laws during the celebrations.