The National Dangerous Drugs Control Board (NDDCB) has reported a significant increase in the number of people using methamphetamine, commonly known as “ice,” in Sri Lanka.
Assistant Director of Research at the NDDCB, Mr. Tamara Darshana, said that more than 60,000 individuals addicted to methamphetamine were arrested during the first 10 months of this year alone.
Speaking at a media briefing held at the Government Information Department, Mr. Darshana noted that arrest statistics over the past few years indicate a gradual increase in the use of methamphetamine. He added that while certain trends are also observed in cannabis use, the rise in methamphetamine use is comparatively higher than that of heroin and cannabis.
Mr. Darshana further revealed that a high prevalence of drug use has been identified in the districts of Colombo, Gampaha, Kalutara, and Kandy. He also pointed out that 99 percent of drug users are polydrug users, meaning they consume more than one type of drug at different times.
Meanwhile, Director of the Treatment and Rehabilitation Division of the National Dangerous Drugs Control Board, Mr. Shantha Gamage, stated that young people between the ages of 20 and 30 are more inclined to drug use.
The officials emphasized the need for strengthened prevention, treatment, and rehabilitation programs to address the growing drug abuse problem in the country.
