-DEC arrests 90 in eastern province

DEC arrests 90 in eastern province

Chipata, June 4, 2013, ZANIS……The Drug Enforcement Commission-DEC has arrested more than 90 people in the eastern province for drug and substance abuse, trafficking and money laundering offences between January and May this year.

Drug Enforcement Commission (DEC) eastern province regional commander Charles Ndulumina said the majority of the people arrested were youths.

Speaking in an interview with ZANIS in Chipata today Mr. Ndulumina expressed concern that with such numbers of youths being arrested it was an indication that they are the most vulnerable to such illicit vices.

He noted that even the increase in Gender Based Violence (GBV) cases in the country has been attributed to alcohol, drug and substance abuse.

Mr. Ndulumina disclosed that majority of the young people counselled by his office for drug abuse are mainly juveniles who also need rehabilitation.

Mr. Ndulumina said it is for this reason that the commission in the province has devised mechanisms aimed at creating and equipping youths with business skills and engaging them in small scale income generating activities.

He added that DEC is also creating public awareness for people to understand the link between drugs, alcohol and substance abuse.

He expressed confidence that these plans will go a long way in reducing the levels of drug abuse, GBV and other domestic violence such as defilement, rape and early child marriages.

The DEC regional commander further said the plans are also in line with the Patriotic Front government manifesto of creating employment and wealth among the young people who are the mot vulnerable in society.