Home Minister Ramesh Lekhak has called on the police to take stronger action against drug crimes, stressing the need to make Nepal free from drugs. During a visit to the Narcotics Control Bureau in Koteshwor, Kathmandu, on Friday, Minister Lekhak said that drug production, storage, and use are big problems for the country.
He explained, “Drug abuse doesn’t just cause crime. It also leads to road accidents, suicides, and even cybercrimes.” He pointed out that the campaign launched last year to fight drugs has made good progress. “Our nationwide drive has shown positive results,” he said, adding that they plan to do even more in the future.
Though resources are limited, the minister said strong commitment and determination have helped achieve a lot. “Even with fewer resources, we have seen real progress because of the will to act,” he said.
Minister Lekhak also expressed worry about the rising number of young people getting addicted to drugs. He said, “The future of our country depends on young people, but sadly, many of them are getting caught in drug abuse.”
He stressed that punishing those involved is not enough. “Stopping drug problems requires everyone’s help — it’s not just the police’s responsibility,” he said. The minister also promised to upgrade the Narcotics Control Bureau into a full department.
He asked Police Inspector General Deepak Thapa to start preparing for this change, and assured that the ministry will support the process. Inspector General Thapa welcomed the plan and promised to work towards it. This shows a stronger commitment from both the government and police to work together for a safer, drug-free Nepal.
