‘Enforcement alone cannot solve the crisis’: L/Subansiri DC on drug menace

ZIRO, Sep 30: In a ‘move’ to counter illegal drug activity and substance abuse across the region, the District Level Narco Coordination Centre (NCORD) Committee of Lower Subansiri held its 23rd meeting today at the District Secretariat, Ziro.

The session brought together heads of law enforcement, civil administration, paramilitary units, and local community leaders to coordinate a unified anti-drug strategy.

Chaired by Deputy Commissioner Oli Perme, along with the Superintendent of Police Techi Hanyir, the meeting addressed enforcement gaps, community outreach, and cross-departmental coordination. Key participants included representatives from the Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB), the 60 Bn ITBP, the 138 Bn CRPF, district drug inspectors, and departmental heads across education, health, forestry, and social welfare.

Stressing the need for proactive community involvement, the DC highlighted that enforcement alone cannot solve the crisis. “Eradicating the drug menace from Lower Subansiri requires an absolute zero-tolerance approach alongside seamless cross-departmental action,” said Perme.

“While law enforcement remains vigilant, our educational institutions, community elders, and local leaders must act as the primary defence against youth vulnerability. We are committed to taking strict legal measures against traffickers while ensuring compassionate rehabilitation pathways for those seeking recovery.”

The SP detailed ongoing security operations and called on local residents and educators to support police efforts. “Our enforcement grid is actively monitoring drug supply chains across all entry corridors and local hubs in Ziro,” Hanyir noted. “Through enhanced coordination with central security forces, the NCB, and local police stations, we are tightening surveillance on persistent offenders. We urge the community and school administrators to report suspicious activities immediately so that we can cut off supply networks at the source.”

To ensure the strategy extends to the grassroots level, the administration engaged ZPMs across all local circles—including Hari, Hija, Diibo, Tajang, Reru, and Kalung—to lead vigilance efforts within their communities.

Additionally, heads of major public and private educational institutions across the district were directed to strengthen campus monitoring, run targeted awareness campaigns, and establish early intervention support for students. (DIPRO)