In the largest drug seizure in the state’s history, the Crime Branch on Tuesday reportedly arrested three individuals in possession of 4.32 kgs. of cocaine valued at Rs. 43.20 crore. It must be said that the amount of drugs being confiscated is increasing with every seizure. Goa is slowly but surely becoming a vital conduit for drug trade. However the worst part is that the contraband was camouflaged in coffee, chocolate and wafer packets and was meant to be sold locally in Goa.
This modus operandi could lead to drugs being available near educational institutions including schools and colleges which could go undetected. Chocolates and wafer packets are easily available at shops and kiosks near educational institutions. It must be said that the earlier young people start using drugs, the greater their chances of continuing to use them and become addicted later in life.
Young people who persistently abuse substances often experience an array of problems, including academic difficulties, health-related problems, including mental health, poor relationships, and involvement with the juvenile justice system. The state government should accept that drug abuse around educational institutions is a grave problem and take necessary steps to dismantle the drug channel.
