Coimbatore: In a stark warning against the pervasive threat of drug addiction, Coimbatore City Police Commissioner N. Kannan has described it as an “evil force” capable of completely seizing control of an individual’s life. He made this impassioned appeal to the city’s youth, urging them to maintain absolute self-control and resist the temptation of experimenting with drugs, even out of mere curiosity. The Commissioner’s remarks came during an awareness event organised by Shankar IAS Academy on the occasion of the International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking.
Combating Addiction: A Priority Over Civil Services
Commissioner Kannan underscored the gravity of substance abuse, stating that avoiding it is of paramount importance, even eclipsing the significance of clearing competitive examinations like the civil services. He emphasized that drug addiction permanently jeopardizes an individual’s future prospects and overall well-being.
The police chief highlighted that drug abuse is not merely a personal vice but a societal crime. He called for a unified societal effort to combat this menace, urging the public to report any suspicious or illicit drug-related activities through the dedicated police helpline. Assuring strict confidentiality for all informants, Kannan stressed the need for community participation in creating a drug-free society.
City-Wide March Against Drugs
Following his address, Commissioner Kannan led a march through Gandhipuram, with over 300 students, parents, teachers, and citizens participating. Carrying banners with the powerful slogan “Say No to Drugs; Let Us Unite to Build a Drug-Free Society,” the participants aimed to spread awareness and encourage collective action against drug abuse. Pamphlets detailing the harmful effects of narcotics were distributed to the public during the march.
The Coimbatore Police have been actively engaged in various initiatives to curb drug addiction and trafficking. The department has launched programs like ‘Drugs Free Coimbatore’ and the ‘Brothers Program’ to create awareness among college students. Recent efforts also include the formation of anti-drug clubs in colleges, aimed at fostering closer collaboration between educational institutions and law enforcement. These clubs are intended to serve as intelligence-gathering networks, with students and faculty actively reporting information related to drug activities.
The police have also intensified their crackdown on drug peddlers, with recent reports indicating the opening of history sheets against habitual offenders involved in drug trafficking. This move aims to enhance surveillance and legal action against those perpetuating the drug trade within the city. Investigations into assets acquired through illicit means are also underway, with potential actions under various stringent laws, including the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita and the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act.
Furthermore, the Coimbatore City Police are exploring strategies to engage families of drug users, aiming to create a supportive environment for rehabilitation and deter further substance abuse. This approach reflects a multi-faceted strategy that combines law enforcement with community engagement and preventative measures.
The Chenab Times News Desk