Rally against drugs

By Our Reporter

SHILLONG, APR 28: The growing menace of drug abuse in the state is a matter of serious concern even among minors.

This was revealed by the Superintendent of Police (City) Vivek Syiem at a meeting to create awareness on the ills of drug abuse among the youth held in the city here on Friday.

Organized jointly by the Khasi Students Union (KSU) Jaiaw Circle and the Khasi Jaintia Presbyterian Synod Sepngi Urban Mission, a public march was also taken out which was participated by students from different schools and colleges.

A short street play on the negative impact of drug use was also performed by the students of Martin Luther Christian University (MLCU).

Addressing the gathering, Syiem said, “It is a surprising that even children at the age group of 12 years are into using drugs.”

According to him, five to six years back, youths indulging in drug use are between the age group 18-30.

Stating that there is a rise in the number of drug users, he said almost every locality in Shillong is facing this problem, which was prevalent only in few pockets in the past.

Also pointing out that the problem has also led to increasing crimes against property,  Syiem said out of more than 1000 cases registered in East Khasi Hills District alone, 50 percent are related to robbery, theft and burglary, which are linked with drug addiction.