Sharp Rise in Drug Use Among School and University Students

COLOMBO (News 1st): Today is International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking.

It is being observed under the theme "The World Drug Problem: Persisting Issues, New Challenges, Innovative Responses."

Director of Treatment, Rehabilitation and Outreach Services at the National Dangerous Drugs Control Board, Shantha Gamage, said drug use in Sri Lanka is increasing rapidly, with a notable rise among school and university students. 

121,266 suspects were arrested on drug-related charges so far this year. 

Out of these arrests, 47,310 are for the possession of ICE (crystal methamphetamine). 

This is 39 percent of the total arrests.

The National Dangerous Drugs Control Board further stated that 39,931 people were arrested for the possession of heroin, 27,833 for cannabis, and 3,374 for other narcotics.

Meanwhile, the Police Narcotics Bureau says 871 kilograms of ICE, 1,202 kilograms of heroin, and 3,518 kilograms of cannabis were seized during the same period. 

Authorities also reported seizures of 263 kilograms of cocaine and 585 kilograms of hashish.