Prevent the spread of drugs online

Addiction to drugs is a multifaceted and complex problem. In terms of the number of drug addicts, Bangladesh ranks seventh in the world. Although Bangladesh is not a drug-producing country, its geographical location makes it a victim of drug aggression. As a result, a significant amount of money is flowing out of the country for drug imports. Additionally, drug traffickers are laundering this illegal money abroad to keep it safe, severely damaging the country's economy. Considering all aspects, the government has declared zero tolerance for eradicating drugs from the country. However, experts believe that the results of this zero-tolerance policy are still not satisfactory.

The hopeful news is that as a result of the government's zero-tolerance policy, we occasionally see drug lords and traffickers being apprehended by law enforcement agencies with drugs in their possession. In this context, today, Wednesday, the International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking is being observed worldwide. This year's theme for the day is " Drug Aggression is Visible, Prevention is the Solution."

However, it is unfortunate that drug proliferation is now occurring online. Since monitoring online activities is more challenging than traditional methods, various types of drugs are being bought and sold online. Drug traffickers and users are using different social media platforms for transactions, which are also happening through online banking. Additionally, drugs are being bought and sold on the dark web, and traffickers are using Bitcoin for these transactions.

These insights have emerged in the 2023 annual report of the Department of Narcotics Control (DNC). The agency's review states that technology has significantly facilitated global communication. As a result, the drug market is expanding worldwide, with new drugs spreading to various parts of the globe. Moreover, drug trafficking through Bangladesh's borders has become a haven for traffickers. In addition, online drug trading has also increased.

A significant portion of the country's youth has fallen victim to this self-destructive addiction. However, drug addiction is not limited to just this age group; it has also spread widely among adults and even children and adolescents. Therefore, drug trafficking across borders and the buying and selling of drugs within the country must be stopped with a firm hand. The spread of drugs online must be stopped. Ensuring accountability of law enforcement agencies and the Department of Narcotics Control in this regard is absolutely essential. Therefore, to eradicate drugs from society and eliminate drug addiction, it is necessary to enforce the law as well as to awaken moral values, increase awareness, and promote social movements.