Mahmut Arıkan: '81 percent of synthetic drugs are seized in Türkiye'

Türkiye Sounds Alarm in Fight Against Drugs
Saadet Party Chairman Mahmut Arıkan drew attention to the drug problem in Türkiye in his speech at the Anti-Drug Summit organized by the New Path Group. Noting that Türkiye ranks high in the world in terms of drug, virtual gambling, alcohol and cigarette use, Arıkan described the current situation as a "grave picture."

Methamphetamine Seizures Increase 375 Percent
In his speech, Arıkan, who presented the situation with statistical data, stated that methamphetamine seizures increased by 375 percent in just one year. Arıkan, who explained that 81 percent of synthetic drugs seized in Europe were seized in Türkiye, said that the country had reached a key point in drug consumption and transportation. He stated that drugs were coming from countries such as Afghanistan, Iran, Russia and Pakistan and were spreading through Türkiye or being transferred to Europe.
 
Dramas on the Streets: 'We Are Fighting for a Piece of Bread'
Noting that the drug crisis is not just about numbers, Arıkan said that during their visits to 41 provinces, the complaints they received from citizens were mostly about drugs. Noting that a woman in Şanlıurfa told them that they were in need of a loaf of bread due to her husband's addiction, Arıkan said that a mother in Istanbul cried for her son's treatment, a police chief in Van, an elderly citizen in Balıkesir and a teacher in Adana cried out about this problem.
 
Guidance of Young People is of Vital Importance
Emphasizing the importance of directing young people to the right areas in the fight against drugs, Arıkan said, “Are we going to send our young people to schools or to casinos?” and expressed that all segments of society should be included in the process. He emphasized that families are left alone and that the sacrifices of addicts’ relatives are very valuable.
 
Offered Concrete Solution Proposals
Arıkan pointed out the inadequacy of the treatment infrastructure in Türkiye and said that AMATEM and ÇEMATEM centers should be opened in every province. He also stated that the capacity of the existing centers should be increased, families should actively participate in the treatment process, and programs should be developed to employ addicted individuals and integrate them into social life. Arıkan, who also voiced his suggestion to establish an 'Addiction Combat Institution', stated that drug dealers should be brought to justice.
 
'We Cannot Sacrifice Even One of Our Young Men'
Addressing the society at the end of his speech, Arıkan said, “We do not have the luxury to sacrifice even one of our young people,” and emphasized that the fight should be carried out collectively. He called for determination to end all forms of drugs, gambling and addiction.
 
 
 
Source: CUMHA - CUMHURS NEWS AGENCY