The Heineken Regatta is in full swing and police have warned that misconduct during the event can result in being detained. They added a list of applicable fines, including US $424 (NAf.. 750) for ill-treatment and $354 (NAf.. 625) for possessing weapons other than illegal firearms (which will usually be prosecuted), resisting arrest, individual verbal threats and serving alcohol to persons under the age of 18.
The other amounts are $212 (NAf. 375) for throwing a bottle, $170 (NAf. 300) for destruction of property and $85 (NAf. 150) for not obeying officers’ instructions, disturbing the peace, fighting in public, removing police barriers and public intoxication. When it comes to drugs possession the fines are $354 (NAf. 625) for possession of between 20 and 30 grams of marijuana, six to ten XTC pills and between three and five grams of cocaine, $226 (NAf. 400) for up to three grams of cocaine and $184 (NAf. 325) for five to 20 grams of marijuana.
People should realise that these fines must be paid right away to avoid being kept in custody, so violators had better have access to funds if they don’t want to spend at least the night behind bars. Also keep in mind that more serious offences are not even mentioned simply because they probably will lead to more than just a fine.
In large crowds it’s always good to be careful, but try to show some patience, compassion and understanding for others as well, if, for example, someone happens to bump into you or your loved one. Avoid having “long toes,” because jail is probably just about the last place anyone wants or needs their party to end.
