GIZO police have arrested seven suspects following a raid on black market outlets on allegations of illegal selling of alcohol at several locations in the township on September 23, 2017.
Police also confiscated several cartons of beer and some cash during the raid.
All suspects have been questioned and have been released awaiting a date for their appearance in Court.
Provincial Police Commander, Western Provinces, Mathias Lenialu says, “I wish to thank members of the community in Gizo for coming forward with the information that led to the successful raid.
“This illegal sale of alcohol has been carried out in family homes and have caused disturbance within the Gizo community over the past several months.
“The easy access to alcohol such as from black market outlets has resulted in stealing, fighting and common nuisance in within the Gizo township.
“Gizo is the center of tourism in the Western Province and tourists will only visit our islands if there is guarantee that there is law and order.
“This week Gizo is hosting the Mini Tomoko Festival to coincide with arrival of the cruise boat, Pacific Eden carrying about 2,200 tourists.
“We want to ensure that our visitors feel safe when they come ashore and enjoy the facilities in the town.”
Police in Gizo will maintain visibility patrols during the Festival and the visit of the cruise boat.
–POLICE MEDIA
