Dr Bosawai Orders Probe Into Viral Video of Boy Smoking and Drinking

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A disturbing video showing a young boy drinking alcohol and smoking, which has gone viral on social media, will now be investigated by authorities, Minister for Health and Medical Services Dr Paul Popora Bosawai has confirmed.

Dr Bosawai strongly condemned those responsible for giving alcohol and cigarettes to the child.

The video, uploaded yesterday and believed to have been taken on New Year’s Day, shows the boy smoking and drinking, prompting widespread public concern.

Speaking to SBMOnline this morning, Dr Bosawai confirmed that his ministry has initiated investigations to identify the child and his parents.

“This is not a good video for our young boys out there,” the minister said.

Dr Bosawai noted that only during the most recent parliamentary sitting, he had outlined steps being taken by the Ministry of Health to strengthen enforcement of the Tobacco Control Act. He reiterated his strong stance against smoking in public places and the practice of parents sending children to purchase cigarettes.

He further revealed that, for the first time, 107 enforcement officers have been appointed to enforce the Tobacco Control Act 2010 nationwide.

Describing the incident as “very disturbing,” Dr Bosawai said the boy’s actions constituted a breach of tobacco regulations and raised serious concerns about child welfare.

In a post on his social media page, the minister stated: “I condemn those who have given beer to this boy.”

“As Minister for Health, I sincerely request the family of this innocent boy to advise and teach him that this behaviour is not good for his health,” Dr Bosawai said.