Drug dealers must face strict justice

Drug Dealers and Their Protectors Deserve No Mercy
By: Zaheer Ahmad Awan
Drugs have become a serious global problem. They destroy lives, break families, and undermine whole communities. No society rich or poor is safe from this menace.
In our country the situation is alarming. Young people are using drugs in streets, neighborhoods, parks, college campuses even near graveyards. What often begins as a trend or experiment quickly becomes addiction that ruins health, education, and future opportunities.
The Social Cost Drug addiction does not only harm the user. Parents, siblings and neighbors suffer too. Addicts are more likely to be involved in theft, robberies, assaults and even murder. These crimes often stem from the desperation caused by substance abuse.
Law Enforcement Limited Success Our Anti-Narcotics Force (ANF) has had notable successes against major smugglers and cross-border networks. Yet smaller dealers who sell in neighborhoods and near schools remain active. Police operations happen, but weak investigations and legal gaps allow many dealers to escape punishment. This shows a clear need to strengthen investigative and judicial processes.Learn from the World Countries that treat drug trafficking with zero tolerance have seen results. Singapore and Malaysia impose very severe penalties for drug smuggling. Some countries have used stronger border controls and better surveillance to limit supply. We must adopt a serious, nationwide approach: tougher laws, faster trials, and better coordination among agencies.
Attack the Supply Chain
Catching street sellers is only part of the solution. We must dismantle the entire supply chain: growers, transporters, financiers, and the powerful people who protect them. Farmers who grow drug crops need alternative livelihoods so they do not turn to illegal cultivation out of necessity.
Public Awareness Matters Law enforcement alone cannot solve this crisis. Parents, teachers, religious leaders, media and civil society must join in public education. Schools should teach young people about the dangers of drugs. Nationwide awareness campaigns can help prevent new users from falling into addiction.Drug dealers and those who protect them are enemies of society. They are not worthy of mercy or leniency. The government must act urgently: enact strict laws, ensure speedy and fair trials, and equip police and investigative agencies to do their jobs well.If we fail to act now, future generations will grow up in a society where drug use is normal and sobriety is rare. It is time for the nation to say clearly:“Drug dealers and their protectors deserve no mercy.”