NCD finally ready to enforce penalties

By MATTHEW VARI

Sunday, February 9, 2014 (Sunday Chronicle, PNG)

THE National Capital District Commission has finally prepared the mechanisms required to fully enforce the betelnut ban imposed in the city.

Despite the approval of penalties when the ban was legalised, capacity has been a main hindrance to full implementation of penalties.

Holding cells have been finalised at the City Authority’s Tapot Engineering Division premises at 4 Mile, along with the printing of infringement notices.

Deputy City Manager Honk Kiap reaffirmed that the commission’s approach of confiscation only would end as of today- with the strict penalties that have been advertised to take effect.    

“You would have noticed during the last three to four week since announcing the ban that we are only confiscating betelnut and letting people caught with them go,” he said.

“Basically because the infringement notices and the holding cells are not ready, and we gave the chance for the people to know that it is wrong.”

“Couple of weeks is good enough time to change their habit and behaviour.”

 The operation centre is to be completed as of last week, and will be fully functional with a holding cell and notices will be effective as of this week.

“The public must know that the penalties will be strictly enforced as of this week.”

“Vehicle owners hired to take in betelnuts into the city- you must have K1000 for your vehicle, K300 for the driver, and whoever smuggling will give K300 everyday if you are caught.”

“The penalties will apply in all transport modes.”

“There are plans to assist those vendors on the streets, but while we are putting in place those plans and mechanisms- let us work together and not aggravate each other by trying to play this cat and mouse game,” Kiap said.