PNB to target big-time peddlers

by L. S. Ananda WEDAARACHCHI

The new head of the Police Narcotics Bureau DIG Sisira Mendis will target big-time peddlers ahead of the small sprats.

He said that top priority will be given for narcotic raids than the other activities such as trainings in future. "Public assistance is essential for successful raids".

We earnestly request the public to inform the Police Narcotics Bureau (PNB) of narcotic dealers and drug users. Informants will be rewarded and their secrecy will not be divulged under any circumstances, he said.Sixty seven and one hundred and eighty four drug offenders were sentenced to death and life imprisonment respectively during the last ten years, the PNB chief told the "Sunday Observer" .

National Dangerous Drug Control Board (NDDCB) Chairman D. P. Mendis said that the Opium and Dangerous Drug Ordinance which was passed in 1929 must be amended to the present day situation. He said that a report on the amendment was presented to President Mahinda Rajapaksa.He said that most drug addicts are between 25-35 who are part of the working population. The government has to spend an enormous amount to improve and treat the health conditions of drug addicts.The Executive Director NDDCB K. Gamage said that 58 percent of the arrested heroin and opium drug addicts were over 30 years of age numbering a little more than 20,000 in 2007.

He said that NDDCB has treatment and rehabilitation centres in Colombo, Kandy, Galle and Urapola providing residential care and treatment and rehabilitation services for drug dependents. He said that drug addicts, who wish to have treatment are requested to contact NDDCB head office at Rajagiriya TP 011-2868794, 2868795, 2868796.