Drug trafficking

Drug trafficking is a global illicit trade involving the cultivation, manufacture, distribution and sale of substances which are banned under the law.  Illegal drugs include cocaine, heroin, methamphetamines and marijuana.

Penalties for trafficking may vary, but in most places penalties are intended to be severe enough to discourage individuals from engaging in illegal drug trade. The reasons for drugtrafficking are greed, poor upbringing, poverty, bad company, unemployment, ignorance, indiscipline, deceit, high demand and corruption.

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As a consequence, drug trafficking is criminal and punishable under the law. It also attracts death penalty in some countries. It will also lead to high rate of corruption in the society. Ways of preventing drugtrafficking include job creation and employment of the youth, adequate enlightenment of the citizens about drug trafficking and its consequences and appropriate sanctioning for drug traffickers.

Authorities such as the police, the immigration department and the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) must be well equipped to tackle and fight against drug trafficking. Poverty eradication measures must be properly implemented.

Titilayo Fakorede, Ibadan.