Peshawar – As part of the fourth phase of the ongoing “Drug-Free Peshawar” campaign, a total of 708 drug addicts were taken into protective custody, out of whom 23 drug addicted persons have tested positive for HIV/AIDS.Health authorities have separated these patients from the rest and allocated a dedicated rehabilitation center to ensure their specialized treatment and care.
Among the drug addicted persons taken into custody, 19 are Childrens and one is a woman.Government Officials report that several addicts, in an attempt to avoid apprehension, had sought shelter in graveyards and back alleys.Local police station heads (SHOs) have now been tasked with locating and safely transporting these remaining addicts to rehabilitation centers.
The developments were shared during a progress review meeting chaired by Commissioner Peshawar Division, Riaz Khan Mehsud. The meeting was attended by Member National Assembly Asif Khan, SSP Operations Peshawar Masood Bangash, Additional Deputy Commissioner General Babar Tanoli, District Officer Social Welfare Noor Muhammad, Assistant Commissioner Shawana Haleem, and administrators of rehabilitation centers.
During the briefing, Commissioner Mehsud was informed in detail about the progress of the campaign since its fourth phase began on June 17.In light of the findings, authorities have resolved to ensure proper medical treatment and rehabilitation for all addicts taken into custody.
To improve oversight, the Commissioner has directed all Assistant Commissioners to conduct surprise visits to rehabilitation centers at different times of the day to monitor facilities and ensure addicts are being provided with adequate support and care.
Additionally, the Halal Food Authority has been instructed to regularly inspect the quality of food being provided at the centers and to ensure nutritional standards are met. The SSP Operations has been ordered to mobilize SHOs for the continued search and transfer of drug addicts taking refuge in public spaces, especially graveyards and alleyways.
The campaign marks a significant step towards addressing the growing drug addiction crisis in the region, with a focus on both public safety and human dignity through effective rehabilitation and reintegration measures.
