By Dr Sana Imran
The alarming rise of illicit drug use within the educational institutions of Pakistan, is a serious concern for the societal fabric and the future of Pakistani youth. The Higher Education Commission (HEC) and the
Anti-Narcotics Force (ANF) of Pakistan, are putting in relentless efforts to prevent educational institutions (EIs) particularly the universities, from the menace of drugs. Prevalence of drugs around educational institutions necessitates immediate intervention from all stakeholders, parents, teachers, administration, law enforcement agencies, and society, to safeguard the younger generation from this devastating menace. ANF is spearheading a country wide CN campaign to curb this issue through educational awareness, targeted operations, and strategic collaborations. Contrarily, drug traffickers are also evolving constantly, using advanced tactics such as cryptocurrency transactions and dark web exploitation to avoid apprehensions.
The Escalating Threat in Educational Institutions
Pakistan’s educational institutions, once considered safe spaces for knowledge and growth, are now facing a dreadful challenge. Drug abuse and trafficking are lurking over as a danger to the students. Young individuals, lured by the false perception of ‘coolness’ and the prospect of easy money, get motivated towards the drug trade, sometimes with the silent approval or ignorance of their families. The availability of narcotics in vicinity of educational institutions is a consequence of organized criminal networks exploiting the vulnerabilities of young people. What was once confined to street corners has now infiltrated the hostels and campuses, making it imperative to address this crisis head-on. Government is cognizant of the severity of the challenge and is taking certain measures to control it.
ANF’s Unwavering Fight Against Drug Trafficking
In the fight against drug trafficking, ANF as Pakistan’s premier CN LEA, has been instrumental in seizing massive quantities of narcotics besides apprehending the culprits, who are involved in this heinous business. Despite limited resources, with only 3,200 personnel operating across highways, seaports, dry ports, airports, and national borders, ANF continues to dismantle drug networks. ANF’s collaboration with civil authorities, educational institutions, and political figures underscores its commitment to eliminating drug-related threats. Since 2001, Pakistan has maintained its status as a Poppy-Free country, a testament to ANF’s strategic initiatives. However, as drug traffickers adopt more sophisticated methods, including social media platforms and cryptocurrency-based transactions, the fight has become increasingly complex.
The Role of Society in Combating Drug Abuse
The responsibility of eradicating drug abuse extends beyond law enforcement. Parents, educators, and society at large must play an active role in preventing drug addiction among youth. Parental negligence, often due to misplaced trust or lack of awareness, allows children to fall prey to drug peddlers. Monitoring a child’s activities, friend circles, and behavioral changes remains essential in curbing this issue at its root. Educational Institutions should implement strict anti-drug policies and awareness campaigns to educate students about the dangers of substance abuse. Teachers and administrators must work alongside law enforcement agencies to identify and report suspicious activities promptly.
The Rising Trend of Digital Drug Trade
With the advancement of technology, drug traffickers have found innovative ways to operate. The dark web, cryptocurrency, and social media platforms have emerged as key tools for drug transactions, making it difficult for law enforcement agencies to trace illicit activities. High-end narcotics like cocaine and weed are being transported internationally through concealed methods, with foreign nationals, including Afghan, Nigerian, and Zambian individuals who are actively involved in this trafficking. Pakistan’s geographical position makes it a transit hub for drug trafficking, further complicating the fight.
The Mustafa Amir Case: A Cautionary Tale
The tragic case of Mustafa Amir exemplifies the devastating consequences of drugs involvement. ANF apprehended and filed charges against him a year before his untimely death, yet legal loopholes allowed him temporary freedom. The reluctance of parents to acknowledge their child’s illegal activities can lead to irreversible consequences. Had his family acted sooner, perhaps by allowing him to face legal repercussions instead of seeking bail, the tragic outcome might have been prevented. Similarly, undue projection on media of the criminals like Armughan or Sahir Hassan by their parents or media is also not justified. This case typically highlights the necessity for stricter legal enforcement and greater parental vigilance to deter such incidents in the future.
A United Front Against Drug Trafficking
This crisis calls for a unified approach. Educational institutions should strengthen anti-drug awareness programs, parents must exercise greater control over their children’s activities, and law enforcement agencies require greater support and resources. The greed for money must not overshadow the moral responsibility of protecting future generations. It is not just an institutional responsibility but a societal duty to ensure that young minds do not fall into the abyss of drug addiction and crime.
The Need for Immediate Action
The battle against drug abuse in educational institutions cannot be fought by ANF alone, it requires a collective effort from all segments of society. Parents, teachers, law enforcement agencies, and policymakers must work in tandem to dismantle the growing drug trade targeting students. The tragic consequences of negligence, as seen in cases like Mustafa Amir, should serve as a wake-up call. The youth are the backbone of the nation, and their future should not be compromised by the menace of narcotics. If we choose to turn a blind eye today, we risk losing an entire generation to addiction and crime.
Dr Sana Imran is a permanent faculty at the National University of Science and Technology (NUST). With a doctorate in economics and management, the scribe likes to write on issues of social importance, particularly concerning the youth. She can be reached at [email protected].
