The Narcotics Control Commission (NACOC) has identified Tramadol as the most highly abused drug in the Lambussie District, raising concerns about the growing threat of substance abuse among young people in the area.
ANCO Noah Pufaa of the Narcotics Control Commission at the Hamile Border Command made the disclosure when he spoke on the James Anabiga Citizens’ Parliament on Lambussie FM during a discussion on drug and substance abuse among the youth.
According to him, several factors contribute to drug and substance abuse among young people, including curiosity, peer pressure, broken homes, poor parental control, easy accessibility to drugs and substances, and the use of drugs to stay awake for learning, among others.
He explained that the consequences of drug and substance abuse are numerous and cannot be exhaustively discussed due to time constraints.
However, he identified some of the effects as poor judgement, which can result in accidents, a slowed nervous system, financial difficulties, addiction, dependence on family members, stigmatisation and wrongful accusations.
ANCO Pufaa further warned that substance abuse could contribute to serious social problems, including sexual violence such as rape and defilement, while also affecting the behaviour and relationships of individuals within their communities.
To reduce drug and substance abuse, ANCO Pufaa called for stronger interventions involving families, communities and institutions.
He advocated for healthy peer-group associations, responsible parenting, public sensitisation and whistleblowing, urging residents to report individuals involved in cultivating and selling controlled substances without the required licences.
He also stressed the need for stronger collaboration between relevant institutions and communities to improve efforts aimed at preventing and combating drug abuse.
The Narcotics Control Commission officer identified inadequate collaboration and the continuous emergence of new and changing forms of drugs and substances as some of the major challenges confronting the enforcement of narcotics laws.
He explained that substances are increasingly being introduced into ordinary products, making them difficult to identify and detect.
According to him, examples include “so bolo,” “shito,” “café” and “toffee” being allegedly induced with drugs or other substances, a development he said makes detection and enforcement particularly challenging.
ANCO Pufaa therefore urged parents, young people, community leaders and institutions to remain vigilant and work together to prevent the spread and abuse of drugs and other harmful substances, particularly among the youth.
