Lubna Mohamed Zahir, Chairman of the National Drug Agency (NDA) and Minister of State for Homeland Security and Technology, declared that drug use is prevalent in every island of the Maldives.
This alarming statement was made during a press conference where the NDA shared insights from police data collected over the past five years.
Lubna emphasized that there is no island in the country where there is no incident of drugs and no island where drugs are not used. This revelation highlights the urgent need for effective measures to combat substance abuse throughout the nation.
During the briefing, NDA Acting CEO Mohammad Rashid pointed out the lack of a comprehensive survey on the drug situation in the Maldives for several years. He announced that the NDA is preparing to conduct a nationwide survey to better understand the extent and impact of drug use.
Lubna further noted a rising trend in drug users in the Maldives, along with a notable number of individuals who have stopped using drugs. In light of these developments, the government is establishing community rehabilitation centers in Velidhoo, Kashid in Malé Atoll, and Gami in Haddunmathi to provide support and resources for those affected.
The drug crisis has escalated, with authorities making daily arrests in Malé for drug-related offenses. Significant quantities of various drugs have been seized, and investigations are ongoing to address trafficking issues.
The government's approach aims not only to create rehabilitation facilities but also to raise awareness and offer assistance to individuals and communities grappling with the consequences of drug use across the Maldives.
This alarming statement was made during a press conference where the NDA shared insights from police data collected over the past five years.
Lubna emphasized that there is no island in the country where there is no incident of drugs and no island where drugs are not used. This revelation highlights the urgent need for effective measures to combat substance abuse throughout the nation.
During the briefing, NDA Acting CEO Mohammad Rashid pointed out the lack of a comprehensive survey on the drug situation in the Maldives for several years. He announced that the NDA is preparing to conduct a nationwide survey to better understand the extent and impact of drug use.
Lubna further noted a rising trend in drug users in the Maldives, along with a notable number of individuals who have stopped using drugs. In light of these developments, the government is establishing community rehabilitation centers in Velidhoo, Kashid in Malé Atoll, and Gami in Haddunmathi to provide support and resources for those affected.
The drug crisis has escalated, with authorities making daily arrests in Malé for drug-related offenses. Significant quantities of various drugs have been seized, and investigations are ongoing to address trafficking issues.
The government's approach aims not only to create rehabilitation facilities but also to raise awareness and offer assistance to individuals and communities grappling with the consequences of drug use across the Maldives.
