By Our Reporter
SHILLONG, June 13: A series of awareness programmes on drug abuse organised by SPARK has led to increased community vigilance, with residents reporting suspected activities that resulted in targeted raids by the Anti-Narcotics Task Force (ANTF).
According to a statement here, the initiative, supported by the Office of the East Khasi Hills Deputy Commissioner, under the Chief Minister’s Youth Development Fund, reached over 400 participants across the Iewduh slum, Mawlong and Pongkung Mawphor villages, and St. Gabriel Higher Secondary School during April and May.
Resource persons from the police and specialised NGOs briefed participants on the legal and health consequences of narcotics.
On the other hand, ANTF Inspector Sunny Sangma shared insights into the legal penalties for possession and trafficking, while Mawdiangdiang OC Mac Gerald discussed the progression from tobacco to harder drugs.
Dr. Maxwell Lyngdoh, a career expert, spoke to students about the impact of addiction on physical health and future professional prospects. K. Syiemlieh, Project Coordinator at the New Hope De-Addiction Centre, highlighted the importance of rehabilitation and the support systems available for affected families.
The interactive sessions prompted several communities to initiate local action plans and group discussions to protect their neighbourhoods.
SPARK noted that the most significant outcome was the unified response from residents, who began collaborating with law enforcement to identify and report drug-related threats in their areas.
The organisation expressed gratitude to the district administration and law enforcement for the collaborative effort in addressing the substance abuse crisis.
