Unemployment impacts will trigger increase in drug trade - Ministry of Defence

The Ministry of Defence, National Security and Policing says that the unemployment impacts brought upon by the COVID-19 pandemic will trigger the increase in the drug trade particularly for those looking to earn a quick income.

It says abuse of drugs is becoming a worldwide public health issue especially methamphetamine, and St. Giles Hospital has also reported an increase in the number of patients suffering from mental illnesses due to drug abuse.

An extensive awareness campaign on drug abuse and illicit trafficking is currently being conducted in the District of Vuda and Vitogo including informal settlements and communities.

The Ministry in collaboration with key stakeholders and NGO’s have organised this campaign with the intention to raise awareness on the harmful effects of hard drugs based on the information received on the prevalence of hard drugs in Lautoka.

The Ministry says massive community awareness is important to help educate the public of the harmfulness of getting addicted to these drugs.

The Minister for Defence, National Security and Policing, Inia Seruiratu will officiate at the commemoration of the UN International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking tomorrow.