Mmegi

Let’s stand against the menace of ‘CAT’

The alarming rise of methcathinone, commonly known as Cat, in our communities demands urgent and concerted action from all stakeholders. This potent drug has swiftly become one of Botswana’s fastest-growing industries, infiltrating every corner of the country and preying on people of all ages, particularly the youth. It’s a menace that cannot be ignored any longer.

Methcathinone’s addictive grip is tightening, and its consequences are devastating. Lives are being ruined, families torn apart, and futures dashed by its destructive power. The drug’s allure knows no bounds, with various methods of ingestion making it accessible to users of all preferences.

Whether it’s snorted, smoked, injected, or taken orally, the outcome is the same: a path of ruin and despair. It is time for action. The government, Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA), Botswana Police Service, parents, educators, and the wider community must come together to combat this epidemic. First and foremost, the government must enact stringent laws and allocate resources to tackle the production, distribution, and sale of methcathinone. We need robust legislation that targets both suppliers and users, with severe penalties for those who profit from others’ suffering.

Editor's Comment
Our digital safety is in our hands

That sounds like good news. But the report also warns that this may simply be because our digital economy is still young, not because we are safe. As more people shop, bank and pay online, criminals will follow.We Batswana do not need a report to tell us that danger is real. Many of us have heard of or fallen victim to KYC scams. A caller impersonates your bank or mobile money provider. They say they need to “verify” your account. They ask...

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