20 new drug addicts every day in Sri Lanka, warns former SDIG Ajith Rohana

Newswire reports that former Senior Deputy Inspector General of Police Ajith Rohana spoke about drug addiction at an event in Sri Lanka. He cited unofficial calculations indicating around 20 people begin experiencing addiction each day and said the issue now affects the school system.

Newswire reports that Rohana estimated the number of people with drug addiction at close to 200,000, based on official and unofficial information. Newswire says the figures he cited, including the daily estimate, have not been independently confirmed.

Newswire reports that Rohana estimated a person taking two doses each day might spend about Rs. 6,000 on them. He said addiction could create financial hardship for individuals and families, and warned that some people dealing with addiction might steal or engage in other offences to get money for drugs.

Newswire reports that Rohana said the issue also adds costs for public healthcare, rehabilitation, police inquiries and court processes. He claimed that much of the illegal drug supply reaching Sri Lanka is directed by a limited number of people operating abroad.

Newswire reports that Rohana said police and other enforcement agencies cannot tackle the problem by themselves. He called for greater contributions from local communities, mental health counsellors and other specialists to prevent addiction and assist rehabilitation.

Written automatically by AI from the outlets’ own reports, and not reviewed by an editor. It can be wrong — the original report is the authority.