Port Moresby | 20 July 2025
Concerns have been raised over a growing and dangerous trend involving underage boys abusing “Zoom” petrol during public events in Port Moresby. A disturbing incident was reported during the Hubert Murray event, where several youths were found in possession of small containers filled with the substance.
According to eyewitness Brian Farmer Waffi, security personnel at the event conducted searches and confiscated two plastic containers containing Zoom petrol. The containers were found in the possession of boys aged between 4 and 16 years old.
“These children contribute money, or in some cases steal petrol from vehicles, and pour it into small containers like these,” Waffi said. “They open the lid, block one nostril, and inhale the fumes for 20 to 30 minutes. It affects their brain and causes them to act in disturbing ways — speaking erratically, changing moods, and behaving abnormally.”
The issue, he added, is not isolated. “There are groups of boys moving around influencing others to join in. It has become an underground trend. Today, we caught five boys red-handed in a small bushy area where they often hide. Two others managed to escape. Some of these boys are from our own community — even our own families.”
Waffi urged parents and guardians to be vigilant. “Do not give your young children extra money for lunch without monitoring them. They might be pressured by peers to buy petrol. Also, avoid letting your children roam around unsupervised, especially in the afternoons or at night.”
He described the movement as dangerous and spiritually destructive. “This is now more than just bad behavior — it’s a serious and growing threat to the lives and future of our children.”
Authorities and community leaders are being urged to take swift action to address this alarming trend, including awareness campaigns, stricter enforcement, and closer community involvement.
