Schools’ march against drug abuse welcome

THE initiative by schools in Kwekwe district to march against drugs and substance abuse is welcome
development which will go a long way in safeguarding the future of young people.
The historic drug awareness campaign is scheduled to be held on Tuesday (February 14) when
learners will temporarily down their pens and make a bold statement in denouncing the use of
dangerous and illicit substances.
The move comes at a time when the government through the Zimbabwe Republic Police, has
launched a major campaign against drug suppliers under operation: “No to dangerous drugs and
illicit substances.”
Young people who persistently abuse substances often experience an array of problems, including
poor academic performance, school drop-outs, early marriages, health-related problems (including
mental health), poor peer relationships, aggressive and violent behaviour.
Dangerous drugs and illicit substances have indeed destroyed the future of young people, some of
whom had the potential to become influential people in the community and help develop the
country.
But some drug kingpins have been smuggling the dangerous drugs from other countries and then
sell them to young people, only to make money.
We are happy to hear that police have managed to apprehend over 200 drug dealers in the last
couple of days and recovered some drugs. Those arrested should be made to reveal those who
supply them with drugs. This will help put a lid to the problem of drugs supply and abuse.
Even young people caught with drugs should also give details of the drug kingpins to the police.
It is not only the duty of the police to fight against drug abuse, but members of the community
should also report anyone dealing in drugs at any nearest police station. Drug lords use high density
suburbs as safe havens, mostly targeting school children.
However the sad thing is that most of these drug lords are known to the police and in some cases
they are actually tipped off by some officers of impending raids. What is also disturbing is the non
arrest of those who are dealing with hard drugs such as cocaine and others.
Yes,scoring successes by apprehending those who sell mbanje and bronco is good, but it is the big
fish that the police should be arresting. These are known to them but are not being arrested.
Therefore, both parents and teachers should strongly educate and encourage adolescents in school
to desist from all forms of drug use or abuse for whatever reasons.
Adolescents should always seek help from caregivers and parents whenever they face any life
threatening situation