Random drug tests of students on cards: Sharjeel

Random drug tests of students is under consideration to catch peddlers supplying drugs on campuses said Sindh Minister for Excise, Taxation, and Narcotics Control Sharjeel Inam Memon at a press conference on Monday.

Conceding that societies around the world are facing a common challenge of drugs, Memon said, "we have to protect our young generation, particularly the students at both the public and private educational institutions from the scourge of narcotics."

Memon said that the Sindh government is planning to conduct random drug tests on students in educational institutions. If any child tests positive, their case will be handled with complete confidentiality. Additionally, strict action will be taken against those involved in supplying drugs.

The crackdown of the Sindh government will continue until the end. Addressing a press conference at the Social and Electronic Media Directorate of the Information Department in Karachi, Sharjeel Memon said the anti-narcotics drive of the Sindh government will enter its second phase with operations carried out with the assistance of the Rangers and Anti-Narcotics Force (ANF).

He mentioned that the Sindh government is planning to establish new rehabilitation centres. He singled out meth ice (methamphetamine) as a dangerous plague that was devouring young minds. He urged parents to pay special attention to their children and requested the media to conduct an awareness campaign against drugs, especially ice.

In the last month and a half, 1,550 suspects have been arrested in ongoing operations against drug dealers. Authorities have seized 236kg of ice besides other narcotics.

In response to a question, the minister mentioned a shortage of staff in the Narcotics Control Department, citing a stalled hiring process due to a current stay order. This has caused frustration among job seekers and exacerbated the department's employee shortage.

Number plates

He said that the Excise and Taxation Department has issued registration plates for 44,000 vehicles that have not yet been collected by their owners. Owners should collect their registration plates promptly. Failure to pay vehicle taxes on time will result in fines. Anyone found driving an unregistered vehicle will have their vehicle impounded.

Starting May 10, the Excise and Taxation Department will initiate action against unregistered vehicles. We do not want citizens' vehicles to be fined. Citizens should ensure their vehicles are registered. No VIP protocol will be given to anyone; unregistered vehicles will be impounded regardless of influence.

Published in The Express Tribune, May 7^th, 2024.