Narcotics Bureau takes drug awareness to Morobe

The National Narcotics Bureau is taking drug awareness to communities in Morobe as it works to educate people about the dangers of drug use.

The Bureau is also planning to set up a provincial office in Morobe to improve its work with local communities and government agencies.

Director General Kiria Kotange says a two-week training and awareness program is now underway in the province.

The first week focuses on training selected participants, while the second week will involve visiting communities to share information about drugs and their effects.

The participants will be trained as narcotics ambassadors to help spread drug awareness in their own communities.

Kotange says the Bureau wants more people to understand the dangers of drugs and how drug use affects individuals, families and communities.

He says marijuana remains one of the common drugs used in the country, while other drugs such as methamphetamine and cocaine are also a concern.

Kotange says the Bureau works with police and other government agencies to address drug-related problems.

He explains that police are responsible for arrests and law enforcement, while the Bureau focuses on awareness, prevention and working with communities.

However, limited funding remains a major challenge for the Bureau as it tries to reach more people across the country.

The planned Morobe office is expected to help the Bureau work more closely with local authorities and communities.

Through the awareness program, the Bureau hopes to encourage people, especially young people, to stay away from drugs and help prevent drug use in their communities.