Rise in drug addictions, related crimes especially thefts increasing

The rise in drug addiction and related crimes, such as thefts, in Tripura has become a menace and concerning issues for the entire state and nowadays, along with other parts of the state, Kumarghat subdivision under Unakoti district has witnessing the increasing trend of drug addictions. This trend  has also been linked to several social and economic factors, including unemployment, poverty, and the easy availability of drugs.

Tripura, being located near international borders like Bangladesh, has become a transit point for drug trafficking. Substances like Heroin, Brown Sugar Cannabis, and synthetic drugs are smuggled into the region. A significant proportion of those affected are young people, who often fall prey to addiction due to peer pressure, unemployment, and lack of awareness about the consequences of drug abuse.

Often seen, drug addicted youths engaged with thefts to fulfil their demands for drugs and now, a vast section of addicted youths looting domestic animals and fishes from ponds.

Many thefts and burglaries in Tripura are committed by individuals trying to fund their drug habits. This creates a vicious cycle of crime and addiction. Reports indicate that both urban centers like Agartala and rural areas are witnessing a surge in such crimes, impacting public safety.

Police sources said that the majority of the petty theft incidents were committed by drug addicted youths. Police claimed that authorities have been conducting anti-drug drives and awareness campaigns. The police have intensified operations to seize drugs and apprehend traffickers.

However, the challenge lies in tackling the root causes of addiction and limited resources and the growing complexity of drug-related crimes have posed challenges for local police in effectively curbing these incidents.

The state police have already enhanced border security and increased the patrolling on the inter-state border including the border with neighbouring states  Mizoram and Assam, which are the main routes for smuggling of different synthetic drugs into Tripura.

Recently, the state government announced to open government run drug rehab facilities and provide affordable treatment to addicted youths and also stressed  on community awareness with regular awareness programs in schools, colleges, and communities to educate people about the dangers of drugs and their impact on families and society.

It may be recalled here that the rise in drug addiction and theft incidents in Tripura is a multifaceted problem requiring coordinated efforts from the government, law enforcement agencies, and the community.