Party drugs pose a risk to life: NDA

National Drug Agency (NDA) has warned to avoid the use of party drugs, stating that although users portray it as harmless, such drugs pose a threat to life.

In a statement released yesterday, NDA said that use of party drugs, alcohol and some other types of narcotics are becoming common across Maldives under the misconception that they are safe to use.

NDA said that the recent trend of partying amongst youth has led to many becoming victims to drug abuse and addiction to dangerous levels.

The agency said that they have learned from such persons who have requested for treatment that they were not regular users of party drugs. However, with habitual use, they gradually became addicted to drugs and moved on to using hard drugs, leading to psychological and physical difficulties.

"As use of these dangerous drugs being spread under the guise of partying and other narcotics pose a threat to life, we warn all users of the dangers of this. We appeal to all to refrain from use of drugs and other dangerous, illegal substances," NDA's statement reads.

In addition to being a criminal offence, drug abuse is also immensely harmful to health and could be life threatening, NDA said. In addition to drugs, injecting substances for use carry risks of serious infections, the agency said, pointing out that many drug users are facing these repercussions even at present.

NDA also expressed concerns about the sharing of photos and videos on social media of drug users and intoxicated persons in Male' and the atolls. They said that in relation to this, the agency has now commenced a joint operation with Police.

From February 25 to March 25, an outreach programme was conducted in the Male' area, NDA said. The findings of this programme indicate that there is an alarming increase in drug use and related crimes, as well as those who get into the habit of drug abuse through the use of party drugs and smoking, they said.

NDA said that this includes both male and female young adults, as well as children under the age of 18. Related health complications have also been identified in many. NDA said that they are planning additional outreach programmes to gauge the prevalence of such issues.

NDA appealed to the public to contact the National Emergency Hotline 911, or NDA hotline 1410, if they come across intoxicated persons on the streets.