Curbing drug abuse

The absence of adequate funds and resources has impeded the ANF's ability to tackle the problem head-on

Each year, large swathes of the population fall prey to the menace of drugs. The absence of adequate funds and resources has impeded the Anti-Narcotics Force’s (ANF) ability to tackle the problem head-on. Currently, there are more than 9 million drug addicts in the country, of which 2 million are believed to be between the ages of 15 to 25.

Traffickers looking to exploit vulnerable groups target educational institutes and hostels where affordability is usually not an issue and great potential for additional customers. The youth are more prone to drug consumption due to easy access, peer pressure, social media and pop culture trends, and academic pressures. Students are now also using drugs to get good results. Educational institutes are either unaware of the issue or not concerned about the welfare of students who are increasingly becoming addicted to hardcore drugs. To stifle the use and supply of drugs at educational institutes, the Senate Standing Committee on Narcotics Control has decided to form vigilance/discipline committees in educational institutes. While this is a step in the right direction, private educational institutes that are notorious for not following government orders will be required to cooperate to make progress on the matter. Perhaps, institutes should be included in the process and urged to initiate anti-drug campaigns.

Previous crackdown attempts have remained futile because of little cohesion within departments and across regions. Corruption among police and other officials has further hampered efforts. Therefore, the authorities need to tighten laws and strengthen lawmakers to improve the monitoring of officials. The ANF has also sought funds and resources to establish rehabilitation facilities for women and children in the capital as well as other cities. Given the enormity of the problem, crackdown initiatives should be taken alongside improving access to rehabilitation to prevent individuals from relapsing and avoid being exploited by traffickers.

 

Published in The Express Tribune, February 12^th, 2023.

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