Karachi: The Sindh government has decided to implement strict measures to combat drug abuse in educational institutions and will conduct drug tests for students.
According to Express News, the Sindh government plans to establish a Fusion Center to enhance intelligence sharing and coordination regarding drug-related issues across all provinces and at the federal level. This initiative aims to strengthen the fight against drugs by connecting all relevant departments and seeking assistance from the health department for rehabilitation centers for drug addicts.
The second meeting of the high-powered committee formed to combat drug abuse was held in Karachi, chaired by Sindh’s Senior Minister Sharjeel Inam Memon. The meeting was attended by Secretary Excise Muhammad Saleem Rajput, Secretary Universities and Boards Abbas Baloch, Secretary Social Welfare Parvez Ahmed Siyah, Commander ANF Brigadier Omar, DIG CIA Muqaddas Haider, among others. Officials from UNODC participated via video link.
During the meeting, it was decided to create a Fusion Center to improve intelligence sharing and coordination related to drugs across all provinces and the federal government. Senior Minister Sharjeel Memon instructed that the high-powered committee should convene every fifteen days to expedite and review actions against drug trafficking.
DIG CIA Muqaddas Haider and Brigadier Omar provided briefings on the operations conducted by the Sindh Police and the Anti-Narcotics Force (ANF). It was noted that the number of applicants for rehabilitation centers has reached 9,000, and 13 suspects involved in supplying drugs to educational institutions have been arrested. The committee also decided to seek assistance from the health department for the rehabilitation of drug addicts.
The UNODC officials assured the Sindh government of their full support in anti-drug efforts. Senior Minister Sharjeel Memon emphasized the need for Fusion Centers at both provincial and federal levels to strengthen anti-drug initiatives. He stated that the Sindh government is committed to a zero-tolerance policy towards drugs, as it is a matter of survival for the younger generation.
Memon urged all stakeholders to play their part in this fight against drug abuse, noting that former President Asif Ali Zardari has issued directives in various meetings to ensure the eradication of drugs. He stressed that if unity is not achieved in this battle, the curse of drug abuse could knock on anyone’s door, highlighting the alarming trend of drug use in homes and parties.
The senior minister pointed out that people from all walks of life are using drugs, and immediate action is required to prevent a crisis. He remarked that drug abuse is a significant challenge, and the Sindh government is determined to eradicate it, as it has become a nationwide issue. He called for collective efforts from all sectors of society.
Memon also directed that rehabilitation centers be activated and the main drug hotspots be identified for eradication. He made it clear that no drug dealer will be spared, and actions will be taken without discrimination. Wherever there are reports of drug use or presence—be it at homes, shops, or gatherings—strict action will be taken.
