Press Digest - Relentless raids required, to eradicate drug abuse

PETALING JAYA: The police must continuously raid entertainment centres to eradicate drug abuse as they are blamed for the demand for drugs, said former Inspector-General of Police Tan Sri Musa Hassan,
In claiming that this has led to the production of synthetic drugs here, Berita Harian quoted Musa saying that the police should be prepared to shoot dead armed syndicate members or drug dealers who pose a threat during operations.
"Police can identify people who take synthetic drugs during raids at entertainment outlets. This can eventually help police trace the source from where these drugs are coming ... small time dealers, middlemen or syndicate leaders," he added.
He said these people have a huge following, they are armed, and they will do anything if they feel their business is threatened.
As to the rise in drug abuse, Musa attributed it to the ease in processing the drugs synthetically as compared to previously.
"These days, there are many types of drugs that can be easily produced without having the need to bring them in from overseas. Previously, drugs like heroin, opium and marijuana had to be imported in, but now they can be produced even at home, if they have all the ingredients," he said.
Musa added, the fight against drug abuses, comprising smuggling, processing, distributing and usage, should also be done through the cooperation of all enforcement agencies.
He said the police have been battling drug menace for a long time and yet of late the situation has worsened.