Rising drug abuse & crime in Nepal: A growing concern

KATHMANDU: On the occasion of Maha Shivaratri, there is a long-standing tradition in Nepal and India of consuming cannabis-infused milk (bhang lassi) and marijuana.

Devotees of Lord Shiva consider cannabis, bhang, and dhatura as sacred offerings.

However, beyond this festival, excessive smoking and alcohol consumption by certain individuals have been contributing to an increase in crimes such as murder, violence, theft, robbery, and other illegal activities in society.

According to data released by the Nepal Police Headquarters, social crimes have been the most prevalent offenses from the fiscal year 2075/76 to 2079/80.

Crimes originating from drug abuse and addiction fall under this category.

Recent Drug-Related Arrests

On Feb 23 (Falgun 11), eight individuals were arrested from different locations with illegal drugs.

• In Bara, Jitpur Simara Sub-Metropolitan City-21, Amlekhgunj, 21-year-old Rajkishor Kurmi of Parsa, Birgunj Metropolitan City-18, Inarwa, was arrested with approximately 5.9 kg of illegal cannabis.
• In Sunsari, Dharan Sub-Metropolitan City-16, police arrested 29-year-old Sushma Tamang from Dharan-8 with 3,210 Tramadol tablets, 1,660 Spasrest tablets, and 730 Spaspain tablets.
• In Makwanpur, Hetauda Sub-Metropolitan City-15, Ratomate, 24-year-old Navin Sunar from Bakaiya Rural Municipality-4, Chhatiwan, was caught with 28 ampoules of Diazepam, 59 ampoules of Phenergan, and 13 ampoules of Norphine.
• In Kanchanpur, Belauri Municipality-4, Belauri Bazaar, two individuals were arrested with approximately 1.43 grams of a brown heroin-like substance. They were identified as 24-year-old Khusi Ram Rana and 22-year-old Dev Raj Rana from Belauri Municipality-7, Ganeshpur.
• In Kanchanpur, Krishna Municipality-5, Gajraula, two individuals were caught with around 90 milligrams of a brown heroin-like substance. The arrested individuals were 23-year-old Dipendra Bogati and 25-year-old Denny Joshi from Krishna Municipality-4.
• In Banke, Nepalgunj Sub-Metropolitan City-1, 23-year-old Vinay Kori from Nepalgunj-14 was arrested with approximately 2.73 grams of a brown sugar-like substance.

These cases reflect the ongoing drug-related crimes in Nepal, with frequent arrests occurring daily. Nepal Police statistics indicate that smoking and alcohol consumption have contributed to an increase in violent crimes.

Alarming Statistics

As per the Nepal Police report, 2,752 drug-related cases were registered by mid-January of the current fiscal year 2081/82. A total of 4,246 individuals have been arrested in connection with drug trafficking, including 4,093 Nepalese, 145 Indians, and 8 other foreign nationals.

During this period, Nepal Police confiscated over 23,089 kg of cannabis, more than 352 kg of hashish, over 45 kg of opium, more than 15 kg of cocaine, and various other illegal substances. The highest number of drug-related arrests was recorded in Koshi Province, with 1,104 individuals detained, while Karnali Province reported the lowest, with 128 arrests.

The number of arrests in other provinces is as follows:

• Madhesh: 403
• Bagmati: 425
• Gandaki: 193
• Lumbini: 593
• Sudurpashchim: 576

Central Police Spokesperson and SSP Dinesh Kumar Acharya stated that all confiscated drugs will be destroyed.

Why Do People Fall Into Drug Addiction?

According to SSP Acharya, 80-90% of drug users start due to peer influence, particularly among teenagers. Most users are between the ages of 16-25.

“Initially, they consume small amounts due to peer pressure, but gradually, it becomes an addiction. Some individuals first engage in drug trafficking and later become users themselves. Additionally, stress has been identified as another factor leading to drug consumption,” said Acharya.

Nepal Police’s Strategy to Combat Drug Abuse

To curb drug addiction, the police have been focusing on controlling drug trafficking, reducing drug supply, restricting imports and exports, and rehabilitating addicted individuals. According to SSP Acharya, the police are working to decrease drug production within Nepal as well.

“We are emphasizing reducing local production and enhancing public awareness while controlling supply chains,” he said.

Punishment for Drug-Related Crimes

SSP Acharya stated that punishments vary based on the type and quantity of drugs involved. “There are severe penalties as well as lenient sentences. We classify offenders into different categories. If an individual is a first-time user and can be rehabilitated, we send them for correction. However, if legal action is required, we proceed accordingly.”

He emphasized that drug addiction is a serious social crime that severely impacts individuals, families, and society as a whole. It also poses a significant economic burden on the country. “Therefore, it is crucial to stay away from drugs and avoid their use altogether,” he added.

Drug abuse has not only harmed individuals but also led to increasing road accidents, family disputes, and societal violence. Many lives have been lost due to drug-related road accidents. It is imperative that we all work together to minimize drug abuse and its consequences in our society.

-Tenzing Dolma Tamang