The people of the two districts on Koro Island are concerned about the illegal sale and consumption of alcohol in villages, attributing it as a cause of violence against women and children.
Koro Island crime prevention committee chairman Tevita Vunileba said growing social issues on the island had been further exacerbated by the excessive consumption of alcohol.
“We are wary of the rising cases of violence against our women and children,” he said.
“This is caused by the excessive consumption of alcohol.
“We are not saying alcohol should be prohibited, but it should be limited.”
Mr Vunileba said an issue was the business from the mainland to the island and some within the island.
He said offenders have been warned, and according to the committee’s discussion, when a black market is caught, the adults in the family will be investigated.
He said another contributing factor to physical abuse was the use of marijuana, adding the committee has received tipoffs from concerned villagers.
“It’s a good thing people are actually speaking up.
“This is a serious issue. They drink on Sundays and sometimes until the start of the week.
“They no longer have respect for Sundays.”
Justice Minister Siromi Turaga said the excessive consumption of alcohol should not be encouraged, adding people must adhere to the proper process of setting up business, factoring in village and district rules.
