YOUTH IN HELA FINED WITH K30,000 FINED OR 20 YEARS IMPRISONMENT ON MARIJUANA CASE
A 26-year-old man has been ordered by Hela Provincial Police Commander, Inspector Arau Mairi to pay a fine of K30,000 or serve 20 years in prison for in possession of approximately 4.7kg marijuana.
The arrest was made by the members of the Royal Papua New Guinea Constabulary and Defense Force personnel at Magarima Check Point on Tuesday 04th August 2026.
Hela Provincial Police Commander (PPC), Inspector Arau Mairi said the named suspect was from Jangome Village in Tari Urban, Tari Pori District in Hela province appeared before the Tari District Court for his first court appearance on Monday 10th August 2026.
Police alleged that on Tuesday 04th August 2026 the members of the RPNGC and Defense Force personnel found 60 rolls of suspected marijuana, weighing approximately 4.7kg. On Wednesday 05th August 2026, the suspect was handed over to the members of the police Investigative Task Force (ITF) where he was formally arrested and placed at the Tari Police Station Holding Cell.
The suspect then appeared before the Tari District Court for his first appearance on Monday 10th August 2026 where the Magistrate found the suspect guilty and ordered him to pay a fine of K30,000.00. If he does not pay the fine, he will serve 20 years in prison.
“To those involved in growing, transporting, selling or distributing illegal drugs, you will be identified, arrested and brought before the courts because there is nowhere for you to hide.
“Our youths must stay away from drugs, illegal fire arms, tribal fights, and so forth and protect your future. The law will catch up with you one fine day. Let this case send a strong message that the wheel of justice is turning,” PPC Mairi said.
PPC Mairi thanked members of the RPNGC and DF personnel for their continued efforts in supporting law and order and gun amnesty awareness right across the province.
PPC also send his special appreciation to the soldiers and police officers involved in the apprehending and arresting the suspect. Thumbs up to the men in green and blue. He said together, they would make Hela safe again.
