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Nyore Madzianike
THE National Taskforce on the Elimination of Drugs and Substance Abuse, in conjunction with the police, will this week release another list of prominent drugs and illicit substance dealers. This is part of efforts to combat the rising scourge of drug abuse.
Last week, police named and shamed 40 individuals who have either been arrested or convicted of involvement in the illegal drug trade. “The Zimbabwe Republic Police will be releasing another list of drug peddlers and suppliers who have been convicted by the courts next week (this week),” said police spokesman Assistant Commissioner Paul Nyathi.
“The national taskforce works with credible information, which leads to the Zimbabwe Republic Police effecting arrests and taking suspects to court for prosecution. We do not rely on speculation, rumours or unsubstantiated claims.”
He urged those with information that may assist in establishing evidence relating to suspected dealers to contact the police.
He dismissed claims from some sections that the individuals whose names were published last week were “small fish”.
The national taskforce has set up structures at national, provincial, district and village levels to fight the drug and substance abuse menace.
“The Zimbabwe Republic Police has decentralised the operations of CID (Criminal Investigations Department) Drugs and Narcotics to enable swift action on all information received on drug peddlers.
“Above all, awareness campaigns have been decentralised to all parts of the country in both rural and urban setups.”
Public Health Adviser to the President and Cabinet Dr Agnes Mahomva said Government wants to facilitate the rehabilitation of individuals affected by the drug epidemic.
“It is not the intention of the national committee to punish people on drugs since these individuals are usually victims of drug peddlers and dealers, and require treatment and rehabilitation, not punishment,” said Dr Mahomva.
“Government is, therefore, focused on supporting such individuals through harm reduction, treatment and rehabilitation services that are currently being strengthened throughout the country.
“Government is, however, and perhaps most importantly, also focused on stopping the supply of drugs and substances from both small and big peddlers and dealers.”
Individuals and communities, she said, must come forward with information that can help the police unmask and arrest drug and illicit substance dealers.
“Families are also urged to continue supporting their loved ones who are on drugs and require treatment and rehabilitation.
“These individuals should not be victimised any further,” she said.
Online Reporter