Over 1,800 drug users in Karnali

SURKHET: There are currently 1,811 drug users in 10 districts of Karnali, according to the Karnali Provincial Police Office.

Speaking at an anti-narcotics program organized in Surkhet on Monday, Provincial Police Chief DIG Bhim Prasad Dhakal highlighted the alarming increase in the number of both drug dealers and users in the province over the years. “In the fiscal year 2019/20, the police arrested 106 men and seven women involved in drug trade and use. The number increased to 164 men and eight women in 2020/21,” said DIG Dhakal. “We have seen drug use in almost all the areas connected to road network.”

Stating that the police alone cannot tackle the issue, DIG Gautam urged the community to help law enforcement agencies by reporting any suspicious activities. “For this, we need to conduct awareness campaigns at the community level,” added DIG Dhakal.

Also speaking on the occasion, the Minister for Internal Affairs and Law of Karnali Province Government, Krishna GC, said necessary legislation, procedures, and plans should be formulated without further delay for effective drug control. “We will formulate the required laws to combat drug use and establish mechanisms to minimize its prevalence,” GC, who also serves as the spokesperson for the provincial government, said.

GC further emphasized the importance of launching awareness campaigns in schools, households, and society as a whole to combat drug use.