BY JUNELYN KELLY

A former provincial politician has been arrested over selling of liquor without licence in West Are’are, Malaita province.

Auki police arrested the 64-year-old man at Oio Via, Wairokai in West Are’are following reports by the community blaming him of contributing to anti-social behaviour and other criminal activities in the area, a police statement yesterday said.

Police arrested the suspect on February 2, the statement said.

“The suspect, a former member of the Provincial Assembly, has been charged with prohibition of unauthorized sales of liquor contrary to Section 57 of the Liquor Act. During the operation, 12 cartons of beer were confiscated,” police said.

The suspect was released on principal bail and is scheduled to appear before the Malaita Principal Magistrate at Afio on March 23.

Police urges community leaders to report criminal activities to the police promptly and ensure proper statements are provided to build strong cases.

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