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Ahead of the Christmas weekend, some provinces in Papua New Guinea have introduced liquor bans in the hope of curbing the violence that stems from binge drinking.
The Post Courier reports that both Morobe and Western Highlands Province have announced a total liquor ban.
In Western Highlands, the provincial administrator Joseph Mangbil said that by Friday all alcohol shops will be closed with police keeping a close eye on black markets.
Mangbil said police will deal with those selling or consuming alcohol after December 23.
In Morobe, provincial administrator Max Bruten said while he understood alcohol was the main revenue earner for businesses, the liquor ban is necessary to ensure that no social issues occur.
In the National Capital District, Governor Powes Parkop said there will be a partial liquor ban which will be enforced on Christmas Day, Boxing Day and New Year's Day.
He called on the public in Port Moresby to respect others and enjoy the Christmas and New Year period without causing a nuisance.
Other districts have also implemented a liquor ban with Wau-Waria the first district to implement a total ban from December 19 for an indefinite period.
While other provinces have not come clear on their stand on a liquor ban, it is expected that many will implement a partial ban from December 24 to January 2.
