Kayin State sees rise in illegal drug use

By BNI
05 July 2016
Kayin State sees rise in illegal drug use
Youth use methamphetamines in a house on the outskirts of Yangon. Photo: Nyein Chan Naing/EPA

The use and sale of illicit drugs in Karen State is a new obstacle that needs to be overcome, said a state-level MP calling for an anti-drug programme to be drafted, reports BNI and KIC on July 4. 
Solving the drug problem can only happen when actions are taken against the perpetrators and those affected, Saw Htoo Ka Paw, told attendees during a public meeting with MPs in Kyain Seikgyi Township.
Drugs and peace are the main challenges that are impeding development in Karen State, he told KIC.
“It is sad to hear that some university students have been selling drugs to pay for their university fees because their parents can’t afford them,” Htoo Ka Paw said. Even middle and high school students are using narcotics, he said.
Saw Shwe Hla Win, a resident of Khale village that attended the meeting, said authorities have taken some action but more needs to be done to tackle the growing drug problem.