As the drug menace continues to affect school going children the Botswana Police Service's Narcotics Fauna and Flora Investigation Unit has expressed deep concern over the rising prevalence of marijuana and methcatynol, commonly known as 'katse' among the youth.
In a recent interview with MmegiOnline, Detective Othusitse Sima of the Narcos Unit emphasised that the substances are a significant national issue, urging community cooperation in combating their spread. "It is concerning to see drugs like marijuana and Katse spreading in our schools. Our children, our future leaders, are being exposed to these harmful substances more and more. This is not just about the police but it is about all of us as a community. Parents, teachers, and leaders need to unite to protect our youth from these dangerous influences. These drugs not only harm their health but also affect their learning and growth. We cannot ignore this. Every child deserves a safe, drug-free place to learn and thrive," Sima highlighted.
Meanwhile, Percy Mothibe, Executive Director of the UN Office on Drugs and Crime Botswana (UNODC), issued a strong warning on the global drug crisis, pointing out its devastating consequences. "Using drugs leads to a tough and endless struggle. The global drug crisis is causing huge harm everywhere. It ruins lives, families, and communities. We must take strong action now to stop more suffering and support those struggling with addiction. This is a serious problem that needs quick action and teamwork from governments, groups, and communities worldwide," he emphasised.
When Mothibe spoke to MmegiOnline, he pointed out concerning patterns in worldwide drug use. He noted an increase in strong synthetic drugs and larger drug networks focusing on young people. "We are noticing stronger synthetic drugs and more cocaine networks targeting young people. This is concerning because it endangers our youth and their future," Mothibe remarked.
Furthermore, Mothibe advocated for increased resources to steer young people away from drug use. He underscored the societal destabilization caused by drug trafficking. "We must invest more in programs that guide young people away from drugs. Drug trafficking disrupts society, leading to violence and weakening law and order," he stressed.
Detective Sima echoed Mothibe's sentiments, urging community vigilance and collaboration with law enforcement. "To the community, let's work hand in hand with the police, report places where these drugs are sourced. They have the potential to ruin futures, let us refrain from them," Sima stated.
Meanwhile, Percy Mothibe, Executive Director of the UN Office on Drugs and Crime Botswana (UNODC), issued a strong warning on the global drug crisis, pointing out its devastating consequences. "Using drugs leads to a tough and endless struggle. The global drug crisis is causing huge harm everywhere. It ruins lives, families, and communities. We must take strong action now to stop more suffering and support those struggling with addiction. This is a serious problem that needs quick action and teamwork from governments, groups, and communities worldwide," he emphasised.
When Mothibe spoke to MmegiOnline, he pointed out concerning patterns in worldwide drug use. He noted an increase in strong synthetic drugs and larger drug networks focusing on young people. "We are noticing stronger synthetic drugs and more cocaine networks targeting young people. This is concerning because it endangers our youth and their future," Mothibe remarked.
Furthermore, Mothibe advocated for increased resources to steer young people away from drug use. He underscored the societal destabilization caused by drug trafficking. "We must invest more in programs that guide young people away from drugs. Drug trafficking disrupts society, leading to violence and weakening law and order," he stressed.
Detective Sima echoed Mothibe's sentiments, urging community vigilance and collaboration with law enforcement. "To the community, let's work hand in hand with the police, report places where these drugs are sourced. They have the potential to ruin futures, let us refrain from them," Sima stated.
