PNG to mark day against drug abuse

 LIKE all countries around the world, PNG will observe and celebrate the International Day against Drug Abuse and Illegal Drug Trafficking on Wednesday, narcotics director-general John Mapusa says.

Mapusa said drug abuse and illicit drug trafficking continued to have a profoundly negative impact on development and stability across the world. 

“The illicit drug trade undermines governance, institutions and societal cohesion,” he said. 

“In return, drug-related crime deepens vulnerability to instability and poverty in any country around the world. To break this vicious circle, it is essential to promote development in drug-growing regions. 

“Because of the seriousness and negative effects of drug abuse and trafficking, the United Nations, in its efforts to combat this illegal activity, has marked June 26 as the International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Drug Trafficking. 

“The theme for this year is ‘Do drugs control your life? Your life. Your Community. No place for drugs’,” he said.