DRINKING alcohol in public is only punishable if witnessed by a police officer or member of the public, according to Acting Police Commissioner Aporosa Lutunauga.
“It must be evidence-based,” he said.
Mr Lutunauga said police officers could not make an arrest without proof.
“The police often disperse crowds even without witnessing offences to prevent disorder,” he said.
He told the Meet the Public and Press forum they needed boots on the ground to enforce the law effectively.
“The police force is undergoing reforms, including an increase of 1000 officers to strengthen enforcement.”
With the increasing calls to use breathalyser tests to detect drunkards out in public, Mr Lutunauga said the law allowed this to be used on drivers only.
“Reforms are underway to possibly extend breathalyser and drug testing for public offences, but these changes have not yet been enacted.”
Mr Lutunauga said they remained committed to enforcing public order within existing legal frameworks while awaiting legislative updates.
