As the Maldives marks the International Day against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking, President Mohamed Nasheed has today inaugurated the National Drug Abuse Helpline.
Speaking at a ceremony held at Dharubaaruge today to launch the National Drug Abuse Helpline, the President underlined the importance of supporting and caring for addicts, as the government bolstered efforts to combat drug trafficking.
Referring to recent operation by the Police that captured a major drug network operating in the Maldives, the President asserted that it was possible to stop all illicit drug flow into the country.
Speaking in this regard, the President assured that the government would stop at nothing to investigate and prosecute those involved in drug trafficking into the country.
He said the web of illicit drugs trade was linked to many other illegal business activities including human trafficking.
In his address today, explaining the situation of drug addiction in the country, he said its adverse effects on the society and obstacles to the development of the country were clear.
Therefore, he noted that there was no reason to shy away from the reality and detract from the blunt truth about the current situation of drug abuse and drug trafficking in the country for the fear of endangering a political opportunity.
The National Drug Abuse Helpline – 1410 – was launched when the President called the number and spoke to one of the counsellors over the phone.
