Substance abuse among city youth rampant, tests reveal

T'puram: Random drug tests conducted by city police have revealed an alarming trend of substance abuse among youth, with 142 people testing positive for various synthetic drugs and cannabis in the past 40 days.Using the newly introduced SoToxa Mobile Test System, police examined saliva samples from over 500 young people during events, at nightlife spots, and during vehicle checks. The majority of those who tested positive were aged between 19 and 26, with substances detected including MDMA, cannabis, methamphetamine, and cocaine.Cases have been registered against all 142 individuals under sections 27(a) and 27(b) of the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act. Previously, police relied solely on breath analyzers for alcohol detection, allowing drug users to evade detection. The introduction of this device—the first of its kind in Kerala—has exposed the widespread drug use in the city.Currently, one device is being rotated among 21 police stations in the city. Given the concerning findings, state police are considering expanding its use across Kerala to assess drug abuse patterns in all districts.The severity of the situation is further highlighted in a recent study by Thiruvananthapuram rural police head Kiran Narayanan, which establishes strong links between youth drug use and violence. The report also identifies gaps in existing control mechanisms and recommends corrective measures.A senior police official, speaking anonymously, emphasized their commitment to combating drug abuse through legal enforcement and awareness campaigns in schools, colonies, and residential areas. The department also maintains strict surveillance of previously arrested individuals to prevent their return to drug-related activities."Drug abuse among youth remains a significant concern, and we are making every effort to combat it through strict law enforcement and intensified awareness campaigns," said a senior police officer. "We have been conducting anti-drug awareness drives in schools, residential colonies, and community associations, and these efforts will continue with even greater intensity. Individuals arrested in NDPS (Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances) cases are closely monitored to prevent their involvement in drug-related activities, and thorough investigations are conducted to uncover all connections in such cases." Adding to these concerns, a state intelligence report has identified 40 schools in the district where students are targeted by drug traffickers, including five schools in Varkala, two in Attingal, and several in the city area.
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