By: Mickey Kavera – EMTV, Port Moresby
Eveka is the name given to the locally produced homebrew, in Popondetta, Oro Province. It is widely consumed by youths; and poses serious health risks.
Adults have also been found to have consumed this toxic drink.
Health workers have reported cases of heart and liver failure, caused by the excessive consumption of homebrew.
It’s production and sale is lucrative; so much that it has become hard to prevent locals from engaging in producing, and selling it.
It is bottled in 500ml Coca Cola containers, and sold at varying price rates depending on its quality.
Producers can fetch up to K300 in a day’s sale.
Locals have blamed the rise in petty crimes on this illegal substance, urging authorities to crackdown on those involved in this trade.
Police have tried their best but are handicapped due to manpower shortage.
The provincial government is assisting police to find ways to mitigate this problem.
Community leaders and the public in the province have also been asked to come forward with information to assist police with their operation to crackdown this illegal trade.
