By Staycey Yalo, EMTV News, Port Moresby
Vendors of fresh fruits and vegetables at the recently opened Saraga Market at 6 Mile, said they are not attracting customers.
The new location they say has caused security concerns for their customers and as such, most of their items are not sold.
They are calling for the Saraga Police Foot Beat Patrol to be reinstated to provide security for both vendors and customers.
A month ago, these vendors were excited to move into a new proper market. Funded by the New Zealand Government in partnership with the government of PNG, the market supports mothers around the North East and Moresby South community to sell their produce to support their families.
Most of the vendors have to travel to 4mile, Malaoro, and Waigani markets to buy bags of fruits and vegetables to bring them back to 6mile to sell.
However, the disbanding of the Saraga market police foot beat patrol has posed security concerns for both customers and the vendors.
Mr David said the market management also has its own security engagement, but the presence of police is needed in this location because of opportunists.
Nevertheless, he said the people are happy with the new market facility. They are also inviting other fruits and vegetables vendors at Malaoro to join them in the new market if Malaoro market is too crowded for them.
