By GEORGINA MICHAEL
The Office of Censorship has destroyed 645 prohibited items today, reaffirming its commitment to enforcing the Classification of Publication (Censorship) Act 1989.
The items were confiscated during enforcement operations conducted throughout last year in partnership with the Papua New Guinea Customs Service.
Chief Censor Mr Jim Abani said the items were identified and seized at the post office, wharves, and Jacksons International Airport as well as provincial inspection operations by the PNG customs service officers.
The 645 prohibited items included sex enhancement products (SEP), medical drugs, dietary supplements, and sex toys in various forms such as gels, creams, sprays, and oils.
“People have shifted from watching sexually explicit movies and videos on DVDs to online platforms now,” Mr Abani said. “They are now importing items that will enhance them, referred to as Sex Enhancement Products. These items are being used by different people and it is very risky, hence we are confiscating them and destroying them before they are used.”
Mr Abani said the Censorship Board made a decision in 2003 to prohibit such items, and the cencorship Office continues to enforce it.
“For the past 25 years, the Office has maintained the Board’s decision because these items are very risky and harmful, with side effects,” he said. “Censorship stands strong to ensure that whatever information for public consumption is safe and suitable.”
He said the Office is also upholding Christian principles and values while adapting to changes in technology hence citizens should abide by those values.
The Chief Censor confirmed that the number of prohibited items coming into the country continues to increase.
“We are building capacity to deal with this,” Mr Abani said. “We are signing Memorandum of Understanding with our stakeholders, including PNG Customs, the Royal Papua New Guinea Constabulary, and other relevant agencies, to address this issue collaboratively.
“The destruction of these prohibited items sends a strong message that the Office of Censorship remains committed to enforcing the law and protecting our communities. We appreciate the continued cooperation of our partner agencies, whose support is critical in safeguarding our borders and ensuring prohibited items do not reach the public.”
The destruction exercise was carried out in collaboration with PNG Customs Service and the Royal Papua New Guinea Constabulary.