By Our Reporter
SHILLONG, Feb 26: Meghalaya’s proximity to the ‘Golden Triangle’ in Southeast Asia makes it vulnerable to the drug menace, Director-General of Police (DGP), LR Bishnoi said on Monday.
Interacting with students of St. Anthony’s College during an awareness programme on the problem of substance abuse and drugs, Bishnoi said the Golden Triangle comprises areas in Myanmar, Thailand and Laos making drugs easily available in the state.
He said that the Golden Triangle is known for the production and trafficking of opium and heroin, making the state particularly vulnerable.
Meghalaya is particularly sensitive due to its porous border with Bangladesh and a long interstate boundary with Assam.
According to him, all countries across the globe except for the Vatican City are facing the drug menace.
Stating that there are 2.5 lakh drug users in Meghalaya, he said that this data reflects the gravity of the problem.
He said Meghalaya police has seized about 24 kg of heroine and 15 kg of crystal meth, which is a highly dangerous drug, besides other types of drugs.
He advised students to stay away from drugs and commended the awareness programmes, saying that they have created a national record by organising 1,263 awareness programmes within 15 days.