SIBU: The Sarawak Narcotics Criminal Investigation Department (NCID) arrested 436 people for various drug-related offences throughout the state last October.
Sibu District Officer Suhaili Mohamed revealed that of the total, 266 were found to be drug-positive, 130 were involved in drug-related offences and 49 were arrested under the supply category.
“From January to September this year, Sibu NCID has arrested a total of 46 people under the age of 18, 603 youth aged between 19 and 40, and 132 people aged 40 and above.
“The number of drug cases in the state has increased based on the statistics of arrests made last year. This scenario is alarming as drugs have become a popular choice for today’s society.
“As such, it is imperative for all parties to take this issue seriously as it can destroy the future especially of the younger generation and at the same time, causing them to be physically and spiritually disabled,” he said.
He said this during a dialogue entitled ‘One Stop Committee to Address Drug and Substance (OCS MIDS) in Iban Community 2019’ held at Catherine Tamong longhouse here yesterday.
In an effort to combat drug abuse, Suhaili said the state government has set up a One Stop Committee to address drug and substance abuse issues in 23 districts throughout Sarawak involving various government agencies, community leaders and non-governmental organisation (NGOs).
He therefore hoped that such programme will provide a clear message to all villagers to work together to combat drug abuse.
