THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The use of drugs among students and teenagers, is increasing alarmingly in the state. It has been increased by four times as compared to last year. Police registered 16,752 drug cases till September this year. MDMA was seized in large amount - 5.714 kg. It costs more than Rs 10,000 per gram. LSD, brown sugar, hashish and heroin are also seized.

It is alleged that the lack of strict action and punishment is the main reason for the increase in the sale and use of intoxicants. Drug-related violence cases are also on the rise. The drug mafia has a huge network that is beyond the control of police and excise. Often only small sellers and consumers are caught.

Drug capsules

It is also alleged that some illegal de-addiction centres sell the drugs bought as part of the treatment. As it is impossible to get rid of drug addiction at once, drugs are often given in small dose. It is alleged that pills are bought and sold in pretext of this. If caught, they will escape by saying that they got it from a de-addiction centre. A strip of 10 tablets priced at Rs 46 is sold for Rs 1,000.

Officials say that in Thiruvananthapuram, there are many women who are mediators among those arrested in drug cases. Many groups are working in Nedumangad, Peroorkada and Neyyatinkara. The target is college students from southern districts. About 20 women were arrested in eight months.